Methods for dispensing a brushable substance onto a surface

ABSTRACT

A method of dispensing a brushable substance onto a surface comprises (1) with a cartridge positioned inside a sleeve between an inner tubular sleeve wall and an outer tubular sleeve wall, circumscribing the inner tubular sleeve wall, and also positioned between a push-lock pressure cap, hermetically coupled with the cartridge, and a valve, communicatively coupled with the cartridge, linearly moving an annular plunger, received between an inner tubular cartridge wall and an outer tubular cartridge wall, circumscribing the inner tubular cartridge wall, toward the valve along a first axis to urge the brushable substance from the cartridge, through the valve, and to a brush that is communicatively coupled to the valve; and (2) controlling flow of the brushable substance from the valve to the brush.

PRIORITY

This application is a divisional of U.S. Ser. No. 15/849,759 filed onDec. 21, 2017.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to apparatuses and methods for dispensinga brushable substance onto a surface.

BACKGROUND

During assembly of a structure, such as an aircraft or a componentthereof, a brushable substance must often be dispensed onto a surface ofthe structure. It is desirable to fully automate such application of thebrushable substance to reduce cost and manufacturing lead time. However,space constraints, in many instances imposed by the geometry of thestructure, make automating the dispensing of brushable substancesdifficult. For example, a robot may need to dispense the brushablesubstance onto a surface, located in a confined space within thestructure, such as inside an airplane wing box that, at the tip, is onlyseveral inches high. Automated dispensing of brushable substances isfurther complicated by the fact that the robot must often enter theconfined space through a small access port and must navigate aroundobstacles while manipulating an end effector to dispense the brushablesubstance onto desired locations along the surface of the structure.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, apparatuses and methods, intended to address at least theabove-identified concerns, would find utility.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples, which may or may notbe claimed, of the subject matter according to the invention.

One example of the subject matter according to the invention relates toan apparatus for dispensing a brushable substance onto a surface. Theapparatus comprises a bracket, configured to be removably coupled with arobot. The apparatus further comprises a sleeve, comprising an innertubular sleeve wall and an outer tubular sleeve wall, circumscribing theinner tubular sleeve wall. The sleeve is coupled to the bracket and isrotatable relative to the bracket about a first axis. The apparatus alsocomprises a cartridge, comprising an inner tubular cartridge wall and anouter tubular cartridge wall, circumscribing the inner tubular cartridgewall. The cartridge is configured to be positioned between the innertubular sleeve wall and the outer tubular sleeve wall. The apparatusadditionally comprises a valve, configured to be communicatively coupledwith the cartridge. The apparatus further comprises a brush-armassembly, coupled to the sleeve. The apparatus 100 also comprises alinear actuator to control flow of the brushable substance from thevalve. The apparatus additionally comprises an annular plunger,positioned between the inner tubular cartridge wall and the outertubular cartridge wall and movable along the first axis. The apparatusfurther comprises a push-lock pressure cap, configured to behermetically coupled with the cartridge. The cartridge is configured tobe positioned between the push-lock pressure cap and the valve.

The apparatus provides for dispensing the brushable substance, from thecartridge, through the brush-arm assembly, to the surface of aworkpiece, for example, located in a confined space. The configurationof the sleeve and the cartridge reduces the size requirements forstorage of the brushable substance and allows the linear actuator and aportion of the valve to be located, or housed, within the sleeve. Thepush-lock pressure cap enables pressurization of an interior volume,located within the cartridge, which drives the annular plunger. Rotationof the sleeve controls an angular orientation of the brush-arm assemblyrelative to the bracket and the surface during dispensing of thebrushable substance. The valve being communicatively coupled directly tothe cartridge enables a reduction of the brushable substance wasted, forexample, during replacement of the cartridge and/or a purging operation.

Another example of the subject matter according to the invention relatesto a method of dispensing a brushable substance onto a surface. Themethod comprises, (1) with a cartridge positioned inside a sleevebetween an inner tubular sleeve wall and an outer tubular sleeve wall,circumscribing the inner tubular sleeve wall, and also positionedbetween a push-lock pressure cap, hermetically coupled with thecartridge, and a valve, communicatively coupled with the cartridge,linearly moving an annular plunger, received between an inner tubularcartridge wall and an outer tubular cartridge wall, circumscribing theinner tubular cartridge wall, toward the valve along a first axis tourge the brushable substance from the cartridge, through the valve, andto a brush that is communicatively coupled to the valve, and (2)controlling flow of the brushable substance from the valve to the brush.

The method provides for dispensing the brushable substance, from thecartridge, through the brush-arm assembly, to the surface of aworkpiece, for example, located in confined space. The configuration ofthe sleeve and the cartridge reduces the size requirements for storageof the brushable substance and allows the linear actuator and a portionof the valve to be located within the sleeve. The push-lock pressure capenables pressurization of an internal volume, located within thecartridge, which drives the annular plunger. Rotation of the sleevecontrols an angular orientation of the brush-arm assembly relative tothe bracket and the surface. The valve being communicatively coupleddirectly to the cartridge enables a reduction in the brushable substancewasted, for example, during replacement of the cartridge and/or apurging operation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described one or more examples of the invention in generalterms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, whichare not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein like referencecharacters designate the same or similar parts throughout the severalviews, and wherein:

FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C collectively are a block diagram of an apparatusfor dispensing an brushable substance, according to one or more examplesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic, perspective view of the apparatus of FIGS. 1A,1B, and 1C, attached to a robot, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a schematic, perspective, partial cut-away view of theapparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a schematic, perspective, exploded view of the apparatus ofFIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 5 is another schematic, perspective, exploded view of the apparatusof FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a schematic, perspective, sectional view of a sub-assembly ofthe apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examplesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a schematic, elevation, sectional view of a sub-assembly ofthe apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examplesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a schematic, elevation, sectional view of a sub-assembly ofthe apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examplesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a schematic, elevation, sectional view of a sub-assembly ofthe apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examplesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a schematic, perspective view of a sleeve and a cartridge ofthe apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examplesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a schematic, perspective, exploded view of the sleeve and thecartridge of FIG. 10, according to one or more examples of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 12 is a schematic, elevation, sectional view of a sleeve, acartridge, and an annular plunger of the apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and1C, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a schematic, perspective view of a push-lock pressure cap ofthe apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examplesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a schematic, elevation, sectional view of the push-lockpressure cap of FIG. 13, according to one or more examples of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a schematic, perspective, exploded view of the push-lockpressure cap of FIG. 13, according to one or more examples of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 16 is a schematic, perspective view of an annular plunger of theapparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is a schematic, perspective, exploded view of the annularplunger of FIG. 16, according to one or more examples of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 18 is a schematic, perspective view of a linear actuator, a valve,and a portion of a valve-locking assembly of the apparatus of FIGS. 1A,1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 is a schematic, perspective, partially exploded view of thelinear actuator, the valve, and the valve-locking assembly of FIG. 18,according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 is a schematic, elevation, sectional view of a valve of theapparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 21 is a schematic, elevation, sectional view of a linear actuatorand a valve of the apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to oneor more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22 is a schematic, elevation, sectional view of a linear actuatorand a valve of the apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to oneor more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 23 is a schematic, perspective, sectional view of a linear actuatorand a valve of the apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to oneor more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 24 is a schematic, elevation view of a valve and a valve-lockingassembly of the apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one ormore examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 25 is a schematic, perspective view of a valve and a valve-lockingassembly of the apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one ormore examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26 is a schematic, perspective, exploded view of the valve and thevalve-locking assembly of FIG. 25, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 27 is a schematic, perspective view of a sleeve, a valve, avalve-locking assembly, and a brush-arm assembly of the apparatus ofFIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 28 is a schematic, perspective, partially exploded view of thesleeve, the valve, the valve-locking assembly, and the brush-armassembly of FIG. 27, according to one or more examples of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 29 is a schematic, perspective view of a sub-assembly of theapparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 30 is a schematic, perspective view of a sub-assembly of theapparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 31 is a schematic, perspective view of a bracket of the apparatusof FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 32 is a schematic, elevation, sectional view of a tensioner of theapparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 33 is a schematic, perspective view of a brush-arm assembly of theapparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 34 is a schematic, perspective view of a brush-arm assembly of theapparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 35 is a schematic, bottom view of a brush-arm assembly of theapparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 36 is a schematic, elevation, sectional view of a brush-armassembly of the apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, according to one ormore examples of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 37A and 37B collectively are a block diagram of a method ofdispensing a brushable substance onto a surface utilizing the apparatusof FIG. 1, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 38 is a block diagram of aircraft production and servicemethodology; and

FIG. 39 is a schematic illustration of an aircraft.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, referred to above, solid lines, if any,connecting various elements and/or components may represent mechanical,electrical, fluid, optical, electromagnetic and other couplings and/orcombinations thereof. As used herein, “coupled” means associateddirectly as well as indirectly. For example, a member A may be directlyassociated with a member B, or may be indirectly associated therewith,e.g., via another member C. It will be understood that not allrelationships among the various disclosed elements are necessarilyrepresented. Accordingly, couplings other than those depicted in theblock diagrams may also exist. Dashed lines, if any, connecting blocksdesignating the various elements and/or components represent couplingssimilar in function and purpose to those represented by solid lines;however, couplings represented by the dashed lines may either beselectively provided or may relate to alternative examples of thepresent disclosure. Likewise, elements and/or components, if any,represented with dashed lines, indicate alternative examples of thepresent disclosure. One or more elements shown in solid and/or dashedlines may be omitted from a particular example without departing fromthe scope of the present disclosure. Environmental elements, if any, arerepresented with dotted lines. Virtual (imaginary) elements may also beshown for clarity. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that some ofthe features illustrated in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C may be combined invarious ways without the need to include other features described inFIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, other drawing figures, and/or the accompanyingdisclosure, even though such combination or combinations are notexplicitly illustrated herein. Similarly, additional features notlimited to the examples presented, may be combined with some or all ofthe features shown and described herein.

In FIGS. 37A, 37B, 37C, and 38, referred to above, the blocks mayrepresent operations and/or portions thereof and lines connecting thevarious blocks do not imply any particular order or dependency of theoperations or portions thereof. Blocks represented by dashed linesindicate alternative operations and/or portions thereof. Dashed lines,if any, connecting the various blocks represent alternative dependenciesof the operations or portions thereof. It will be understood that notall dependencies among the various disclosed operations are necessarilyrepresented. FIGS. 37A, 37B, 37C, and 38 and the accompanying disclosuredescribing the operations of the method(s) set forth herein should notbe interpreted as necessarily determining a sequence in which theoperations are to be performed. Rather, although one illustrative orderis indicated, it is to be understood that the sequence of the operationsmay be modified when appropriate. Accordingly, certain operations may beperformed in a different order or simultaneously. Additionally, thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that not all operations describedneed be performed.

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth toprovide a thorough understanding of the disclosed concepts, which may bepracticed without some or all of these particulars. In other instances,details of known devices and/or processes have been omitted to avoidunnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. While some concepts will bedescribed in conjunction with specific examples, it will be understoodthat these examples are not intended to be limiting.

Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “first,” “second,” etc. are usedherein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal,positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which theseterms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second” item does notrequire or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbereditem, and/or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

Reference herein to “one example” means that one or more feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example isincluded in at least one implementation. The phrase “one example” invarious places in the specification may or may not be referring to thesame example.

As used herein, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element,component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function isindeed capable of performing the specified function without anyalteration, rather than merely having potential to perform the specifiedfunction after further modification. In other words, the system,apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware“configured to” perform a specified function is specifically selected,created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and/or designed for thepurpose of performing the specified function. As used herein,“configured to” denotes existing characteristics of a system, apparatus,structure, article, element, component, or hardware which enable thesystem, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardwareto perform the specified function without further modification. Forpurposes of this disclosure, a system, apparatus, structure, article,element, component, or hardware described as being “configured to”perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively bedescribed as being “adapted to” and/or as being “operative to” performthat function.

Illustrative, non-exhaustive examples, which may or may not be claimed,of the subject matter according the present disclosure are providedbelow.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 2-5, apparatus 100 for dispensing brushable substance 102 ontosurface 154 (FIG. 1C) is disclosed. Apparatus 100 comprises bracket 104,configured to be removably coupled with robot 116. Apparatus 100 furthercomprises sleeve 110, comprising inner tubular sleeve wall 114 and outertubular sleeve wall 112, circumscribing inner tubular sleeve wall 114.Sleeve 110 is coupled to bracket 104 and is rotatable relative tobracket 104 about first axis 118. Apparatus 100 also comprises cartridge124, comprising inner tubular cartridge wall 126 and outer tubularcartridge wall 128, circumscribing inner tubular cartridge wall 126.Cartridge 124 is configured to be positioned between inner tubularsleeve wall 114 and outer tubular sleeve wall 112. Apparatus 100additionally comprises valve 140, configured to be communicativelycoupled with cartridge 124. Apparatus 100 further comprises brush-armassembly 152, coupled to sleeve 110. Apparatus 100 also comprises linearactuator 138 to control flow of brushable substance 102 from valve 140.Apparatus 100 additionally comprises annular plunger 148, positionedbetween inner tubular cartridge wall 126 and outer tubular cartridgewall 128 and movable along first axis 118. Apparatus 100 furthercomprises push-lock pressure cap 150, configured to be hermeticallycoupled with cartridge 124. Cartridge 124 is configured to be positionedbetween push-lock pressure cap 150 and valve 140. The preceding subjectmatter of this paragraph characterizes example 1 of the presentdisclosure.

Apparatus 100 provides for dispensing brushable substance 102, fromcartridge 124, through brush-arm assembly 152, onto surface 154 of aworkpiece, for example, located in a confined space. The configurationof sleeve 110 and cartridge 124 reduces the size requirements forstorage of brushable substance 102 and enables linear actuator 138 and aportion of valve 140 to be located, or housed, within sleeve 110.Push-lock pressure cap 150 enables pressurization of an interior volume,located within cartridge 124, which drives annular plunger 148. Rotationof sleeve 110 controls an angular orientation of brush-arm assembly 152relative to bracket 104 and surface 154 during dispensing of brushablesubstance 102. Valve 140 being communicatively coupled directly tocartridge 124 enables reduction of brushable substance 102 wasted, forexample, during replacement of cartridge 124 and/or a purging operation.

Apparatus 100 is configured to facilitate a reduction in the labor,time, and inaccuracies associated with the application of brushablesubstance 102 onto surface 154 (and/or other surfaces) of the workpiece.Apparatus 100 is further configured to facilitate the automatedapplication of brushable substance 102 within a confined space, such aswithin a wing box of an aircraft.

As used herein, brushable substance 102 refers to any substance ormaterial that is capable of being brushed, wiped, polished or otherwisespread onto a surface, for example, using an implement having bristles.Examples of brushable substance 102 include, but are not limited to,paints, adhesives, protective coatings, polishes, and sealants. In someexamples, brushable substance 102 is used for purposes of painting,surface protection, corrosion resistance, and/or fixation, among otherpurposes.

Generally, apparatus 100 functions as an automated end effector that isoperably coupled with an end of robot 116 (FIG. 2) or other robotic armmechanism and that is designed to interact with the environment bydispensing brushable substance 102 onto surface 154. Cartridge 124 ofapparatus 100 provides for the containment of brushable substance 102.Sleeve 110 of apparatus 100 enables a secure coupling of cartridge 124to apparatus 100. Push-lock pressure cap 150 enables access to sleeve110 for insertion of cartridge 124 into sleeve 110 and removal ofcartridge 124 from within sleeve 110. Push-lock pressure cap 150 alsoenables the application of pressure to (e.g., within) cartridge 124 formoving annular plunger 148 along first axis 118 toward valve 140.Movement of annular plunger 148 toward valve 140 urges brushablesubstance 102 out of cartridge 124 and into valve 140. With cartridge124 received within sleeve 110 and push-lock pressure cap 150 in aclosed and locked position, cartridge 124 is sealingly andcommunicatively coupled with valve 140 to enable sealed flow ofbrushable substance 102 from cartridge 124 to valve 140 via theapplication of pressure to annular plunger 148. Brush-arm assembly 152dispenses brushable substance 102 from valve 140 to surface 154. Linearactuator 138 facilitates control of flow of brushable substance 102 fromvalve 140 to brush-arm assembly 152 by selectively opening and closingvalve 140. In some examples, linear actuator 138 is any one of variouslinear actuators powered in any one of various ways, such aspneumatically, electrically, hydraulically, and the like.

With sleeve 110 coupled to bracket 104, inner tubular sleeve wall 114 ofsleeve 110 circumscribes first axis 118. In some examples, each one ofinner tubular sleeve wall 114 and outer tubular sleeve wall 112 ofsleeve 110 has a tubular shape suitable to receive cartridge 124 androtate relative to bracket 104. In an example, each one of inner tubularsleeve wall 114 and outer tubular sleeve wall 112 of sleeve 110 has acircular cross-sectional shape. In another example, each one of innertubular sleeve wall 114 and outer tubular sleeve wall 112 of sleeve 110has an elliptical cross-sectional shape. Similarly, with cartridge 124received within sleeve 110, inner tubular cartridge wall 126 ofcartridge 124 circumscribes first axis 118 and inner tubular sleeve wall114 and outer tubular sleeve wall 112 circumscribes outer tubularcartridge wall 128. In some examples, each one of inner tubularcartridge wall 126 and outer tubular cartridge wall 128 of cartridge 124has a tubular shape suitable to contain brushable substance 102 and fitbetween inner tubular sleeve wall 114 outer tubular sleeve wall 112. Inan example, each one of inner tubular cartridge wall 126 and outertubular cartridge wall 128 of cartridge 124 has a circularcross-sectional shape. In another example, each one of inner tubularcartridge wall 126 and outer tubular cartridge wall 128 of cartridge 124has an elliptical cross-sectional shape. In some examples, first axis118 is a central longitudinal axis of apparatus 100.

In some examples, sleeve 110 is coupled to bracket 104 in any mannersuitable to enable rotation of sleeve 110 about first axis 118 relativeto bracket 104. In some examples, apparatus 100 also includes one ormore annular bearings 404 coupled to an exterior of outer tubular sleevewall 112 of sleeve 110. In some examples, a first one of annularbearings 404 is located at one end of sleeve 110 and a second one ofannular bearings 404 is located at the other end of sleeve 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 10-12, sleeve 110 further comprises sleeve first end 120,comprising annular sleeve end-opening 162 that separates inner tubularsleeve wall 114 and outer tubular sleeve wall 112. Sleeve 110 isconfigured to receive cartridge 124 through annular sleeve end-opening162. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 2 of the present disclosure, wherein example 2 also includes thesubject matter according to example 1, above.

Annular sleeve end-opening 162 provides an access opening into sleeve110 and facilitates insertion of cartridge 124 into sleeve 110 andremoval of cartridge 124 from within sleeve 110. Moreover, withpush-lock pressure cap 150 coupled to sleeve 110, at least portion ofpush-lock pressure cap 150 is positioned within annular sleeveend-opening 162 to enable locking of push-lock pressure cap 150 tosleeve 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 12, sleeve 110 further comprises at least a portion ofcartridge-ejection system 164, selectively operable to at leastpartially eject cartridge 124 from sleeve 110 through annular sleeveend-opening 162. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 3 of the present disclosure, wherein example 3also includes the subject matter according to example 2, above.

Cartridge-ejection system 164 enables application of an ejection force,sufficient to at least partially move cartridge 124 along first axis 118through annular sleeve end-opening 162 for removal of cartridge 124 fromwithin sleeve 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 12, sleeve 110 further comprises sleeve second end 122, oppositesleeve first end 120, and annular sleeve end-wall 168, interconnectinginner tubular sleeve wall 114 and outer tubular sleeve wall 112 atsleeve second end 122. Cartridge-ejection system 164 comprises sleevepressure input 166, configured to communicate pneumatic pressure throughannular sleeve end-wall 168 to at least partially push cartridge 124 outof annular sleeve end-opening 162. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 4 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 4 also includes the subject matter according to example 3,above.

Selective pneumatic operation of sleeve pressure input 166 enablesapplication of pneumatic pressure between annular sleeve end-wall 168and cartridge 124 to push cartridge 124 out of sleeve 110 throughannular sleeve end-opening 162. Moreover, selective pneumatic operationof sleeve pressure input 166 facilitates use of automated pneumaticcontrols to control pneumatic operation of sleeve pressure input 166 ofsleeve 110.

In some examples, sleeve pressure input 166 of cartridge-ejection system164 includes (or is) a pneumatic fitting coupled to annular sleeveend-wall 168 and configured to communicate pneumatic pressure throughannular sleeve end-wall 168. Cartridge-ejection system 164 enablesapplication of pneumatic pressure to cartridge 124 to create theejection force for moving cartridge 124 along first axis 118. In someexamples, pneumatic pressure is applied between annular sleeve end-wall168 and cartridge 124 to at least partially eject cartridge 124 fromsleeve 110. In some examples, cartridge-ejection system 164 alsoincludes a pressure tube (e.g., an air hose) to facilitate communicationof pressure to sleeve pressure input 166. In some examples, the pressuretube communicates pressure from a source of pneumatic pressure to sleevepressure input 166. In some examples, remaining portions ofcartridge-ejection system 164 (e.g., source of pneumatic pressure,controller, pressure actuator, etc.) are located, for example, on anexterior of apparatus 100, on robot 116, etc.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 4, 5, and 29, apparatus 100 further comprises first drive assembly192, configured to selectively controllably rotate sleeve 110 aboutfirst axis 118 relative to bracket 104. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 5 of the present disclosure,wherein example 5 also includes the subject matter according to any oneof examples 1 to 4, above.

First drive assembly 192 facilitates automated, precise rotation ofsleeve 110 about first axis 118 relative to bracket 104. Controlledselective rotary motion of sleeve 110 relative to bracket 104 enablesselective adjustment of a rotational orientation of sleeve 110 aboutfirst axis 118 relative to bracket 104 and selective adjustment of anangular orientation of brush-arm assembly 152 relative to bracket 104and relative to surface 154. Selective adjustability of the angularorientation of brush-arm assembly 152 relative to bracket 104 enablesbrush-arm assembly 152 to be positioned in any one of numerous angularorientations about first axis 118 relative to bracket 104 and surface154. Rotational movement of brush-arm assembly 152 relative to surface154 facilitates dispensing of brushable substance 102 onto various areasof surface 154 without having to change the position of apparatus 100,for example, via robot 116.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 4, 5, and 29, first drive assembly 192 comprises first motor 136and first power-transmitting component 184, operatively coupled withfirst motor 136 and sleeve 110. Sleeve 110 further comprises splines180, projecting outwardly from outer tubular sleeve wall 112. Firstpower-transmitting component 184 comprises teeth 172, configured to matewith splines 180 of sleeve 110. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 6 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 6 also includes the subject matter according to example 5,above.

First motor 136 being operatively coupled with first power-transmittingcomponent 184 and sleeve 110 being operatively coupleable with firstpower-transmitting component 184 enables first motor 136 to controllablyselectively rotate sleeve 110. Teeth 172 of first power-transmittingcomponent 184 and splines 180 of sleeve 110 enable an interference fitbetween first power-transmitting component 184 and sleeve 110. Matingengagement of teeth 172 of first power-transmitting component 184 withsplines 180 of sleeve 110 enables co-rotation of firstpower-transmitting component 184 and sleeve 110. Controlled selectiverotation of first power-transmitting component 184 by first motor 136enables rotational tracking of sleeve 110 relative to bracket 104.

In some examples, first motor 136 includes an output shaft that isrotatable by first motor 136 to produce a rotary force or torque whenfirst motor 136 is operated. In some examples, first motor 136 is anyone of various rotational motors, such as an electric motor, a hydraulicmotor, a pneumatic motor, an electromagnetic motor, and the like. Insome examples, first motor 136 is coupled to interface bracket 224.

First power-transmitting component 184 facilitates the transmission ofpower and provides an efficient and reliable mechanism to transmit powerfrom first motor 136 to sleeve 110, such as when first axis 118 is notco-axial with a rotational axis of first motor 136. In an example, firstpower-transmitting component 184 is a belt operatively coupled with theoutput shaft of first motor 136. In other examples, firstpower-transmitting component 184 is any one of a chain, a gear, a geartrain, and the like. Advantageously, the belt is lighter and cleanerthan other implementations of first power-transmitting component 184,for example, the belt does not require lubrication for effectiveoperation.

In some examples, first drive assembly 192 also includes one or moreother transmission components configured to operatively couple firstmotor 136 with first power-transmitting component 184 including, but notlimited to, gears, belts, sprockets, and the like.

In some examples, splines 180 project radially outwardly from theexterior of outer tubular sleeve wall 112 and are locatedcircumferentially around outer tubular sleeve wall 112. In someexamples, with sleeve 110 coupled to bracket 104, splines 180 areoriented parallel with first axis 118. In some examples, splines 180extend from proximate to sleeve first end 120 of sleeve 110 to proximateto sleeve second end 122 of sleeve 110. In some examples, splines 180extend between annular bearings 404, coupled to outer tubular sleevewall 112. In some examples, splines 180 are located on only acircumferential portion of outer tubular sleeve wall 112 that is engagedby first power-transmitting component 184. Throughout the presentdisclosure, the term parallel refers to an orientation between itemsextending in approximately the same direction.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 30-32, bracket 104 comprises tensioner 194, configured to tensionfirst power-transmitting component 184 with respect to first motor 136and sleeve 110. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 7 of the present disclosure, wherein example 7also includes the subject matter according to example 6, above.

Tensioner 194 facilitates application of adjustable tension to firstpower-transmitting component 184. With tensioner 194 engaged with andapplying tension to first power-transmitting component 184, firstpower-transmitting component 184 maintains contact with a portion ofouter tubular sleeve wall 112 so that teeth 172 of firstpower-transmitting component 184 remain are mated with splines 180 ofsleeve 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 31, tensioner 194 comprises tensioner base 196, coupled to bracket104, and tensioner pulley 198, coupled to tensioner base 196 androtatable relative to tensioner base 196 about second axis 200, parallelto first axis 118. Tensioner pulley 198 is configured to engage firstpower-transmitting component 184. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 8 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 8 also includes the subject matter according to example 7,above.

Tensioner base 196 sets a position of tensioner pulley 198 relative tobracket 104 and in tension with first power-transmitting component 184.Rotation of tensioner pulley 198 about second axis 200 enables freerotational movement of first power-transmitting component 184.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 30-32, tensioner base 196 is linearly moveable relative to bracket104. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 9 of the present disclosure, wherein example 9 also includes thesubject matter according to example 8, above.

Linear movement of tensioner base 196 enables adjustment of a positionof tensioner base 196 relative to bracket 104 and adjustment of atension applied to first power-transmitting component 184 by tensionerpulley 198.

In some examples, tensioner base 196 is configured to move linearly awayfrom bracket 104 and toward bracket 104. In some examples, bracket 104includes bracket wall 440. Tensioner base 196 is coupled to an interiorof bracket wall 440 and is linearly movable relative to bracket wall440. In some examples, bracket wall 440 defines bracket opening 438.Bracket opening 438 provides access to sleeve 110 for firstpower-transmitting component 184, which passes through bracket opening438. In some examples, tensioner 194 is located within bracket opening438.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 30-32, tensioner base 196 is not rotatable relative to bracket104. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 10 of the present disclosure, wherein example 10 also includesthe subject matter according to example 9, above.

Fixing a rotational orientation of tensioner base 196 relative tobracket 104 fixes second axis 200 of tensioner pulley 198 parallel tofirst axis 118 and enables tensioner pulley 198 to maintain positivecontact with first power-transmitting component 184.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 32, tensioner 194 further comprises tensioner-biasing element 204,configured to bias tensioner pulley 198 against first power-transmittingcomponent 184. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 11 of the present disclosure, wherein example 11also includes the subject matter according to example 10, above.

Tensioner-biasing element 204 enables tensioner pulley 198 to remainengaged with first power-transmitting component 184. Engagement oftensioner pulley 198 with first power-transmitting component 184facilitates constant application of tension on first power-transmittingcomponent 184 during rotation of first power-transmitting component 184.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 32, bracket 104 further comprises clearance hole 210 andcounterbore 212, coaxial with clearance hole 210. Tensioner 194 furthercomprises fastener 208, passing through clearance hole 210 and throughcounterbore 212. Fastener 208 is threaded into tensioner base 196. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 12 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 12 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 11, above.

Fastener 208 couples tensioner 194 to bracket 104. Fastener 208 alsoenables linear movement of tensioner base 196 relative to bracket 104.In some examples, fastener 208 is configured to control a position oftensioner base 196 relative to bracket 104. Linear movement of tensionerbase 196 relative to bracket 104 facilitates adjustment of the positionof tensioner pulley 198 relative to first power-transmitting component184, for example, to reduce or increase the tension applied to firstpower-transmitting component 184 by tensioner pulley 198.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 32, tensioner 194 further comprises slide pin 214, fixed relativeto one of bracket 104 or tensioner base 196 and movable relative toother one of bracket 104 or tensioner base 196. The preceding subjectmatter of this paragraph characterizes example 13 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 13 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 12, above.

Slide pin 214 enables linear movement of tensioner base 196 relative tobracket 104 and prohibits rotational movement of tensioner base 196about fastener 208 relative to bracket 104. Linear movement of tensionerbase 196 facilitates adjustment of the position of tensioner pulley 198relative to first power-transmitting component 184. Non-rotation oftensioner pulley 198 maintains an orientation of firstpower-transmitting component 184 during co-rotation of firstpower-transmitting component 184 and sleeve 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 32, tensioner-biasing element 204 comprises compression spring 216,positioned between bracket 104 and tensioner base 196. Compressionspring 216 is located in counterbore 212. The preceding subject matterof this paragraph characterizes example 14 of the present disclosure,wherein example 14 also includes the subject matter according to example12 or 13, above.

Compression spring 216 enables tensioner base 196 to be pushed, orbiased, away from bracket 104 to position tensioner pulley 198 intension with first power-transmitting component 184. In some examples,compression spring 216 is a helical, or coil, compression spring,located around fastener 208 with one end engaged with tensioner base 196and the other end engaged with an interior surface of counterbore 212.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 2 and 3, bracket 104 is linearly moveable along first axis 118relative to robot 116. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 15 of the present disclosure, wherein example 15also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 5 to14, above.

Linear movement of bracket 104 relative to robot 116 enables linearmovement of brush-arm assembly 152 relative to robot 116 and to surface154. Linear movement of brush-arm assembly 152 relative to surface 154facilitates deposition of brushable substance 102 on surface 154 havingan irregular shape or on multiple other surfaces of the workpiece, forexample, without having to change the position of apparatus 100 viarobot 116.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 2-5, apparatus 100 further comprises robot interface 222,configured to be coupled to robot 116, and interface bracket 224,configured to be coupled to robot interface 222 and linearly moveablerelative to robot interface 222. Bracket 104 is coupled to interfacebracket 224. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 16 of the present disclosure, wherein example 16also includes the subject matter according to example 15, above.

Robot interface 222 enables quick coupling of apparatus 100 with robot116 and quick releasing of apparatus 100 from robot 116. Interfacebracket 224 enables movable coupling of bracket 104 to robot interface222. Linear movement of interface bracket 224 relative to robotinterface 222 enables linear movement of bracket 104 relative to robot116.

In some examples, robot interface 222 also facilitates quick coupling ofcommunication lines between apparatus 100 and robot 116. In someexamples, robot interface 222 enables automated coupling of apparatus100 with robot 116 and automated releasing of apparatus 100 from robot116. In some examples, robot interface 222 is a tool-side portion of apneumatic quick-change mechanism and robot 116 includes a tool interfaceof the pneumatic quick-change mechanism.

In some examples, interface bracket 224 includes a pair of bracket arms406. Bracket arms 406 facilitate engagement of interface bracket 224with robot interface 222 and guide linear motion of interface bracket224 relative to robot interface 222. In some examples, each one ofbracket arms 406 includes guide channel 408 and robot interface 222includes a pair of guide rails 410. Guide channel 408 of bracket arms406 is configured to receive and move along an associated one of guiderails 410.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 4, 5, and 29, apparatus 100 further comprises proximity sensor190, coupled to interface bracket 224 and configured to detect whensleeve 110 is in predetermined rotational orientation relative tobracket 104. Apparatus 100 also comprises homing element 186, coupled tosleeve 110 and configured to actuate proximity sensor 190 when sleeve110 is rotated about first axis 118 to predetermined rotationalorientation. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 17 of the present disclosure, wherein example 17also includes the subject matter according to example 16, above.

Homing element 186 enables actuation of proximity sensor 190 when sleeve110 is rotated to the predetermined rotational orientation relative tobracket 104 to indicate that sleeve 110 is in a home position. Use ofhoming element 186 and proximity sensor 190 to indicate the homeposition also enables use of an incremental position encoder, which iscapable of determining the rotational orientation of sleeve 110 relativeto bracket 104 following a power interruption, rather than an absoluteposition encoder, which would be unable to determine the rotationalorientation of sleeve 110 relative to bracket 104 in case of a powerinterruption.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, homing element 186comprises magnet 188 on outer tubular sleeve wall 112. Proximity sensor190 comprises magnetic sensor 220. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 18 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 18 also includes the subject matter according to example 17,above.

Magnet 188 enables non-contact actuation of magnetic sensor 220 whensleeve 110 is rotated to the predetermined rotational orientationrelative to bracket 104 to indicate that sleeve 110 is in the homeposition.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 2 and 3, interface bracket 224 is selectively linearly movablealong first axis 118 relative to robot interface 222. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 19 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 19 also includes the subject matteraccording to any one of examples 16 to 18, above.

Selective linear movement of interface bracket 224 along first axis 118relative to robot interface 222 enables controlled, selective adjustmentof the linear position of bracket 104 relative to robot 116 andcontrolled, selective adjustment of the linear position of brush-armassembly 152 relative to surface 154. Controlled, selective linearmovement of brush-arm assembly 152 relative to surface 154 facilitatesdispensing of brushable substance 102 on surface 154 having an irregularshape or on multiple other surfaces of the workpiece.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 4 and 5, apparatus 100 further comprises second drive assembly228, configured to selectively controllably translate interface bracket224 along first axis 118 relative to robot interface 222. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 20 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 20 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 19, above.

Second drive assembly 228 facilitates automated, precise lineartranslation of interface bracket 224 along first axis 118 relative torobot interface 222. Controlled selective linear movement of interfacebracket 224 relative to robot interface 222 facilitates controlledselective adjustment of a linear position of bracket 104 along firstaxis 118 relative to robot interface 222 and controlled selectiveadjustment of a linear position of brush-arm assembly 152 relative tosurface 154.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 4 and 5, second drive assembly 228 comprises second motor 206 andsecond power-transmitting component 226, operatively coupled with secondmotor 206 and interface bracket 224. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 21 of the present disclosure,wherein example 21 also includes the subject matter according to example20, above.

Second motor 206 being operatively coupled with secondpower-transmitting component 226 and interface bracket 224 beingoperatively coupled with second power-transmitting component 226 enablessecond motor 206 to controllably translate interface bracket 224relative to robot interface. Second power-transmitting component 226enables selective linear movement of interface bracket 224 along an axisparallel to first axis 118 relative to robot interface 222. With secondpower-transmitting component 226 operatively coupled with interfacebracket 224, operation of second power-transmitting component 226enables selective linear movement of interface bracket 224 relative torobot interface 222. Additionally, controlled selective translation ofinterface bracket 224 relative to robot interface 222 enables automatedlinear tracking of interface bracket 224 relative to robot interface222.

In some examples, second motor 206 includes an output shaft that isrotatable by second motor 206 to produce a rotary force or torque whensecond motor 206 is operated. In some examples, second motor 206 is anyone of various rotational motors, such as an electric motor, a hydraulicmotor, a pneumatic motor, an electromagnetic motor, and the like. Insome examples, second motor 206 is coupled to robot interface 222.

Second power-transmitting component 226 facilitates the transmission ofpower and provides an efficient and reliable mechanism to transmit powerfrom second motor 206 to interface bracket 224. In some examples, secondpower-transmitting component 226 is any one of a translation screwdrive, a chain, a belt, a gear, a gear train, and the like.

In some examples, second drive assembly 228 also includes one or moreother transmission components configured to operatively couple secondmotor 206 with second power-transmitting component 226 including, butnot limited to, gears, belts, sprockets, and the like.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 4 and 5, second power-transmitting component 226 of second driveassembly 228 comprises ball screw 230, rotationally coupled with robotinterface 222, and ball nut 232, coupled to interface bracket 224 andoperatively coupled with ball screw 230. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 22 of the present disclosure,wherein example 22 also includes the subject matter according to example21, above.

Ball screw 230 and ball nut 232 enable translation of rotational motionof second motor 206, via second power-transmitting component 226, tolinear motion of interface bracket 224 relative to robot interface 222.Advantageously, selection of ball screw 230 and ball nut 232 enablesapparatus 100 to withstand high thrust loads and enables precise controlof linear movement of interface bracket 224 relative to robot interface222.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 11 and 12, cartridge 124 further comprises cartridge first end130, comprising annular cartridge end-opening 170 that separates innertubular cartridge wall 126 and outer tubular cartridge wall 128.Cartridge 124 is configured to receive brushable substance 102 throughannular cartridge end-opening 170. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 23 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 23 also includes the subject matter according to any one ofexamples 1 to 22, above.

Annular cartridge end-opening 170 enables access for deposition ofbrushable substance 102 into cartridge 124. Moreover, when push-lockpressure cap 150 is coupled to sleeve 110, at least portion of push-lockpressure cap 150 is positioned within annular cartridge end-opening 170to form hermetic seal between push-lock pressure cap 150 and cartridge124.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 11, 12, and 28, cartridge 124 further comprises cartridge secondend 132, opposite cartridge first end 130, and annular cartridgeend-wall 174, interconnecting inner tubular sleeve wall 114 and outertubular sleeve wall 112 at cartridge second end 132. Cartridge 124 alsocomprises cartridge outlet port 134, passing through annular cartridgeend-wall 174 and configured to be communicatively coupled with valve140. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 24 of the present disclosure, wherein example 24 also includesthe subject matter according to example 23, above.

Cartridge outlet port 134 of cartridge 124 enables transfer of brushablesubstance 102 from cartridge 124 to valve 140.

In some examples, cartridge 124 includes more than one cartridge outletport 134. Each cartridge outlet port 134 is configured to becommunicatively coupled with valve 140. In some examples, cartridgeoutlet port 134 includes a gasket configured to form a seal betweencartridge outlet port 134 and valve 140.

In some examples, sleeve 110 also includes at least one pass-throughport 412 passing through annular sleeve end-wall 168. Pass-through port412 of sleeve 110 is configured to enable cartridge outlet port 134 tobe communicatively coupled with valve 140 such that brushable substance102 can flow from cartridge 124 into valve 140.

In some examples, cartridge-ejection system 164 enables application ofpneumatic pressure between annular sleeve end-wall 168 and annularcartridge end-wall 174 to at least partially eject cartridge 124 fromsleeve 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 10 and 11, apparatus 100 further comprises cartridge-alignmentfeature 160, configured to orient cartridge 124 relative to sleeve 110and valve 140 about first axis 118. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 25 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 25 also includes the subject matter according to any one ofexamples 1 to 24, above.

Cartridge-alignment feature 160 enables proper alignment of cartridge124 relative to valve 140 such that cartridge 124 is in communicationwith valve 140 upon cartridge 124 being received by sleeve 110. Settingthe rotational orientation of cartridge 124 relative to sleeve 110 and,thus, relative to valve 140 facilitates cartridge 124 being in fluidcommunication with valve 140. Cartridge-alignment feature 160 ensuresthat cartridge 124 is in a proper rotational orientation relative tovalve 140 in order to align and communicatively couple cartridge outletport 134 with valve 140.

In some examples, cartridge-alignment feature 160 includes alignmentprotrusion 416 and alignment groove 418. Alignment and engagement ofalignment protrusion 416 with alignment groove 418 facilitates properrotational orientation of cartridge 124 relative to valve 140 withcartridge 124 in fluid communication with valve 140. In some examples,alignment protrusion 416 is located on and projects outwardly from aninterior surface of inner tubular cartridge wall 126 and alignmentgroove 418 is located on and depends inwardly from an exterior surfaceof inner tubular sleeve wall 114. In some examples, alignment protrusion416 and alignment groove 418 are located on outer tubular cartridge wall128 and outer tubular sleeve wall 112, respectively. In some examples,the location of alignment protrusion 416 and alignment groove 418 onrespective ones of inner tubular cartridge wall 126, outer tubularcartridge wall 128, inner tubular sleeve wall 114, and/or outer tubularsleeve wall 112 varies. In some examples, the configuration of alignmentprotrusion 416 and alignment groove 418 relative to the interior surfaceand/or exterior surface of inner tubular cartridge wall 126, outertubular cartridge wall 128, inner tubular sleeve wall 114, and/or outertubular sleeve wall 112 vary.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 13-15, push-lock pressure cap 150 comprises spring-loaded latches256, moveable relative to sleeve 110 between locked position, in whichspring-loaded latches 256 are engaged with sleeve 110, and unlockedposition, in which spring-loaded latches 256 are disengaged from sleeve110. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 26 of the present disclosure, wherein example 26 also includesthe subject matter according to any one of examples 1 to 25, above.

Spring-loaded latches 256 enable push-lock pressure cap 150 to bereleasably locked to sleeve 110 and sealed with cartridge 124. Withspring-loaded latches 256 engaged with sleeve 110, push-lock pressurecap 150 is releasably locked to sleeve 110. With spring-loaded latches256 disengaged from sleeve 110, push-lock pressure cap 150 is unlockedfrom sleeve 110. Using spring-loaded latches 256 to releasably lockpush-lock pressure cap 150 in the closed position prevents disengagementbetween push-lock pressure cap 150 and sleeve 110 and between push-lockpressure cap 150 and cartridge 124 upon communication of pressure tocartridge 124 to move annular plunger 148 along first axis 118 towardvalve 140.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 13-15, individual members of one pair of spring-loaded latches256, adjacent to each other, and individual members of any other pair ofspring-loaded latches 256, adjacent to each other, have equal angularseparations, as observed from first axis 118. The preceding subjectmatter of this paragraph characterizes example 27 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 27 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 26, above.

Equal angular separations, as observed from first axis 118, ofspring-loaded latches 256 of one pair of spring-loaded latches 256 andspring-loaded latches 256 of any other pair of spring-loaded latches 256enables equal distribution of force on push-lock pressure cap 150 whenpneumatic pressure is applied within cartridge 124 between push-lockpressure cap 150 and annular plunger 148.

In some examples, each one of spring-loaded latches 256 is disposed atequally angular spaced apart location about push-lock pressure cap 150relative to adjacent one of spring-loaded latches 256. In some examples,push-lock pressure cap 150 includes two spring-loaded latches 256 thatare equally spaced apart, three spring-loaded latches 256 that areequally spaced apart, etc.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 13, spring-loaded latches 256 are intrinsically biased in lockedposition. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 28 of the present disclosure, wherein example 28 also includesthe subject matter according to example 26 or 27, above.

Spring-loaded latches 256 being intrinsically biased into the lockedposition enables spring-loaded latches 256 to lock push-lock pressurecap 150 to sleeve 110 until spring-loaded latches 256 are moved into theunlocked position. In other words, biasing spring-loaded latches 256requires active engagement of spring-loaded latches 256 to unlockpush-lock pressure cap 150 from sleeve 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 13-15, push-lock pressure cap 150 further comprises annular cap250, configured to be at least partially received within sleeve 110between inner tubular sleeve wall 114 and outer tubular sleeve wall 112.Push-lock pressure cap 150 also comprises annular cartridge interface252, coupled to annular cap 250 and configured to be at least partiallyreceived within cartridge 124 between inner tubular cartridge wall 126and outer tubular cartridge wall 128. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 29 of the present disclosure,wherein example 29 also includes the subject matter according to example28, above.

Annular cap 250 provides a coupling interface between push-lock pressurecap 150 and sleeve 110. Annular cartridge interface 252 provides asealing interface between push-lock pressure cap 150 and cartridge 124to hermetically couple push-lock pressure cap 150 and cartridge 124.

In some examples, push-lock pressure cap 150 also includes inner capgasket 420 and outer cap gasket 422. Inner cap gasket 420 is configuredto form a seal between push-lock pressure cap 150 and inner tubularcartridge wall 126 when push-lock pressure cap 150 is coupled to sleeve110. Outer cap gasket 422 is configured to form a seal between push-lockpressure cap 150 and outer tubular cartridge wall 128 when push-lockpressure cap 150 is coupled to sleeve 110. In some examples, inner capgasket 420 is coupled to annular cartridge interface 252 to form a sealbetween annular cartridge interface 252 and inner tubular cartridge wall126 when push-lock pressure cap 150 is coupled to sleeve 110. In someexamples, outer cap gasket 422 is coupled to annular cartridge interface252 to form a seal between annular cartridge interface 252 and outertubular cartridge wall 128 when push-lock pressure cap 150 is coupled tosleeve 110. By forming a seal between push-lock pressure cap 150 andcartridge 124, inner cap gasket 420 and outer cap gasket 422 facilitatethe containment of pressure within cartridge 124 to move annular plunger148. In some examples, each one of inner cap gasket 420 and outer capgasket 422 is an O-ring, made of a pliable or compressible material,such as rubber silicone, and plastic polymers.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 13-15, push-lock pressure cap 150 further comprises cam 258,rotatable about first axis 118 relative to annular cap 250. Rotation ofcam 258 transitions spring-loaded latches 256 between locked positionand unlocked position. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 30 of the present disclosure, wherein example 30also includes the subject matter according to example 29, above.

Cam 258, being rotatable about first axis 118, enables transition (e.g.,movement) of spring-loaded latches 256 between the locked position, tocouple push-lock pressure cap 150 to sleeve 110, and the unlockedposition, to uncouple push-lock pressure cap 150 from sleeve 110. Cam258 enables spring-loaded latches 256 to remain biased in the lockedposition until selective operation of cam 258. With spring-loadedlatches 256 in the locked position relative to sleeve 110, spring-loadedlatches 256 interlock push-lock pressure cap 150 and sleeve 110.Selective operation of cam 258, via rotation of cam 258 about first axis118 relative to annular cap 250, moves spring-loaded latches 256 intothe unlocked position relative to sleeve 110 to unlock push-lockpressure cap 150 and sleeve 110.

In some examples, when rotated in a first rotational direction (e.g.,counterclockwise) about first axis 118, cam 258 is configured tosimultaneously disengage spring-loaded latches 256 such that each one ofspring-loaded latches 256 concurrently transitions from the unlockedposition to the locked position. In some examples, when rotated in asecond rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) about first axis 118, cam258 is configured to simultaneously engage spring-loaded latches 256such that each one of spring-loaded latches 256 concurrently transitionsfrom the locked position to the unlocked position. Simultaneoustransition between the locked and unlocked position of spring-loadedlatches 256 ensures that all of spring-loaded latches 256 are in theirproper respective positions when locking and unlocking push-lockpressure cap 150 to sleeve 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 13-15, each of spring-loaded latches 256 comprises linear guide234, coupled to annular cap 250, and keeper 236, reciprocally movablealong linear guide 234. Each of spring-loaded latches 256 furthercomprises latch spring 238, coupled to keeper 236. With cam 258 in firstrotational orientation, latch spring 238 pushes keeper 236 into lockingaperture 240, formed in sleeve 110. With cam 258 in second rotationalorientation, cam 258 pushes keeper 236 out of locking aperture 240,formed in sleeve 110. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 31 of the present disclosure, wherein example 31also includes the subject matter according to example 30, above.

Spring-loaded latches 256 and cam 258 enable quick, easy, and effectivelocking and unlocking of push-lock pressure cap 150 to sleeve 110. Withcam 258 rotated into a first rotational orientation, cam 258 enableslinear movement of keeper 236 along linear guide 234 into a push-lockedposition, in which keeper 236 is inserted within locking aperture 240 tolock push-lock pressure cap 150 to sleeve 110. With cam 258 rotated intoa second rotational orientation, cam 258 enables linear movement ofkeeper 236 into a push-unlocked position, in which keeper 236 iswithdrawn from locking aperture 240 to unlock push-lock pressure cap 150from sleeve 110.

In some examples, each of spring-loaded latches 256 is a passive lockmechanism that is simply constructed, yet effective at preventinginadvertent unlocking of push-lock pressure cap 150 from sleeve 110. Insome examples, linear guide 234 includes one or more slide pins coupledto annular cap 250 of push-lock pressure cap 150. In some examples,keeper 236 is movably coupled to linear guide 234 and is configured tolinearly move along linear guide 234. In some examples, latch spring 238is a helical, or coil, compression spring coupled to keeper 236. In someexamples, latch spring 238 is configured to bias keeper 236 in thepush-locked position with keeper 236, located within locking aperture240 of sleeve 110, to lock push-lock pressure cap 150 to sleeve 110.Latch spring 238 facilitates a passive and simple way to biasspring-loaded latches 256 into the locked position to lock push-lockpressure cap 150 to sleeve 110.

In some examples, keeper 236 includes bar 464 that is configured to beinserted within and withdrawn from locking aperture 240 of sleeve 110upon movement of keeper 236 between the push-locked and push-unlockedpositions. In some examples, locking aperture 240 of sleeve 110 islocated proximate to sleeve first end 120 within a portion of sleeve 110configured to receive at least a portion of annular cap 250 of push-lockpressure cap 150. In some examples, locking aperture 240 of sleeve 110is formed through outer tubular sleeve wall 112 of sleeve 110. In someexamples, with keeper 236 in the push-locked position, bar 464 projectsradially outward from push-lock pressure cap 150 and into lockingaperture 240 of sleeve 110. In some examples (not illustrated), lockingaperture 240 of sleeve 110 is formed through inner tubular sleeve wall114 of sleeve 110. In some examples, with keeper 236 in the push-lockedposition, bar 464 projects radially inward from push-lock pressure cap150 and into locking aperture 240 of sleeve 110. In some examples, bar464 and locking aperture 240 have complementary shapes or profiles suchthat bar 464 fits snuggly within locking aperture 240.

In some examples, cam 258 includes an annular or semi-annular cam bodyand cam surfaces 466 projecting from the cam body. In some examples,each one of cam surfaces 466 is configured to engage an associated oneof spring-loaded latches 256 when cam 258 is rotated into the secondrotational orientation. In some examples, keeper 236 also includesfollower surface 468. In some examples, rotation of cam 258 moves eachone of cam surfaces 466 into one of engagement with or disengagementfrom follower surface 468 of keeper 236 of each associated one ofspring-loaded latches 256. As cam 258 is rotated into the secondrotational orientation, cam surfaces 466 move along follower surface 468of keeper 236 of each associated one of spring-loaded latches 256 toovercome the biasing force applied by latch spring 238 and push keeper236 away from sleeve 110 to remove bar 464 from within locking aperture240. As cam 258 is rotated back into the first rotational orientation,cam surfaces 466 move away from follower surface 468 of keeper 236 ofeach associated one of spring-loaded latches 256 to enable latch spring238 to push keeper 236 toward sleeve 110 to insert bar 464 withinlocking aperture 240.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 13-15, push-lock pressure cap 150 further comprises cam lock 178,configured to releasably lock cam 258 in at least first rotationalorientation. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 32 of the present disclosure, wherein example 32also includes the subject matter according to example 31, above.

Cam lock 178 enables quick, easy, and effective locking and unlocking ofcam 258 relative to annular cap 250. Releasably locking cam 258 with camlock 178 prevents inadvertent rotation of cam 258 relative to annularcap 250.

In some examples, cam lock 178 is a spring-biased locking mechanism. Insome examples, cam lock 178 includes plunger 424 that is moveablycoupled to annular cap 250. In some examples, an end of plunger 424 isconfigured to be inserted within and withdrawn from locking aperture 426formed in a body of cam 258. In some examples, cam lock 178 alsoincludes lock spring 428 coupled to plunger 424 and configured to biasplunger 424 into engagement within locking aperture 426 of cam 258. Withthe end of plunger 424 of cam lock 178 inserted within locking aperture426 of cam 258, cam lock 178 restricts rotational movement of cam 258.In some examples, cam lock 178 also includes a grip element, located atthe opposing end of plunger 424, for example, on an exterior of annularcap 250, to enable an operator to manually withdraw plunger 424 fromlocking aperture 426 of cam 258. Once plunger 424 of cam lock 178 isremoved from locking aperture 426 of cam 258, cam 258 is capable ofbeing rotated. In some examples, cam 258 includes one locking aperture426 appropriately located to engage cam lock 178 when cam 258 in thefirst rotational orientation to prevent inadvertent rotation of cam 258into the second rotation orientation and movement of spring-loadedlatches 256 into the unlocked position. In some examples, cam 258 alsoincludes another locking aperture 426 appropriately located to engagecam lock 178 when cam 258 in the second rotational orientation toprevent inadvertent rotation of cam 258 into the first rotationorientation and movement of spring-loaded latches 256 into the lockedposition.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 13-15, spring-loaded latches 256 and cam 258 are sandwichedbetween annular cap 250 and annular cartridge interface 252. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 33 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 33 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 31 or 32, above.

Annular cap 250 and annular cartridge interface 252 sandwichspring-loaded latches 256 and cam 258 such that cam 258 is rotatableabout first axis 118 relative to annular cap 250 and spring-loadedlatches 256 are moveable relative to sleeve 110 between the lockedposition and the unlocked position.

In some examples, annular cap 250 includes cap openings 430. In someexamples, each one of cap openings 430 is configured to at leastpartially receive keeper 236 of an associated one of spring-loadedlatches 256. In some examples, linear guide 234 of each one ofspring-loaded latches 256 is coupled to annular cap 250 within anassociated one of cap openings 430. In some examples, latch spring 238of each one of spring-loaded latches 256 is located within theassociated one of cap openings 430 such that movement of keeper 236 intothe push-unlocked position within the associated one of cap openings 430compresses latch spring 238 against annular cap 250. In some examples,latch spring 238 is located around linear guide 234 and is coupled atone end to keeper 236 and is coupled at the other end to annular cap250. In some examples, annular cartridge interface 252 includes caprecesses 432. In some examples, each one of cap recesses 432 isconfigured to at least partially receive keeper 236 of an associated oneof spring-loaded latches 256. In some examples, cap openings 430 and caprecesses 432, in combination, retain keeper 236 of the associated one ofspring-loaded latches 256 and enable reciprocal movement ofspring-loaded latches 256 relative to annular cap 250 and annularcartridge interface 252.

In some examples, cam 258 is movably coupled with annular cap 250. Insome examples, fasteners 434 couple cam 258 to annular cap 250 in such away that cam 258 is capable of rotational movement relative to annularcap 250. In some examples, annular cap 250 includes guide slots 436. Insome examples, fasteners 434 are located within and move along guideslots 436 as cam 258 rotates relative to annular cap 250. In someexamples, each one of fasteners 434 also includes a grip element thatenables an operator to manually rotate cam 258 by moving fasteners 434along guide slots 436.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 13-15, push-lock pressure cap 150 further comprises cap pressureinput 246, configured to communicate pneumatic pressure within cartridge124 to push annular plunger 148 along first axis 118 toward valve 140.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 34of the present disclosure, wherein example 34 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 30 to 33, above.

Cap pressure input 246 enables communication of pneumatic pressurethrough annular cap 250 and annular cartridge interface 252 forapplication of a driving force to move annular plunger 148 along firstaxis 118 within cartridge 124, which in turn urges brushable substance102 from cartridge 124 into valve 140.

In some examples, apparatus 100 also includes a pressure tube (notillustrated) to facilitate communication of pressure to push-lockpressure cap 150. In some examples, the pressure tube communicatespressure to cap pressure input 246 to facilitate pressurization ofcartridge 124 and to control operation of annular plunger 148, such aslinearly moving annular plunger 148 along first axis 118 toward valve140. In some examples, cap pressure input 246 is a pneumatic fitting.

Selective pneumatic operation of cap pressure input 246 of push-lockpressure cap 150 enables precise application of pneumatic pressure tobrushable substance 102 in cartridge 124 to precisely control the flowof brushable substance 102 out of cartridge 124 and into valve 140.Additionally, selective pneumatic operation of cap pressure input 246facilitates the use of automated pneumatic controls to control thepneumatic operation of cap pressure input 246.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 16 and 17, annular plunger 148 comprises annular plunger body 282.Annular plunger 148 further comprises annular inner seal 284, coupled toannular plunger body 282 and located between annular plunger body 282and inner tubular cartridge wall 126. Annular plunger 148 also comprisesannular outer seal 286, coupled to annular plunger body 282 and locatedbetween annular plunger body 282 and outer tubular cartridge wall 128.Annular plunger 148 additionally comprises annular seal retainer 288,coupled to annular plunger body 282. Annular inner seal 284 and annularouter seal 286 are sandwiched between annular plunger body 282 andannular seal retainer 288. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 35 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 35 also includes the subject matter according to any one ofexamples 1 to 34, above.

A two-member seal of annular plunger 148 enables annular plunger 148 toreact to pneumatic pressure applied within cartridge 124, betweenpush-lock pressure cap 150 and annular plunger 148, to move annularplunger 148 along first axis 118 toward valve 140. Annular inner seal284 forms an inner seal between annular plunger body 282 and innertubular cartridge wall 126. Annular outer seal 286 forms an outer sealbetween annular plunger body 282 and outer tubular cartridge wall 128.Annular plunger body 282 facilitates containment of pressure betweenpush-lock pressure cap 150 and annular plunger 148. Annular sealretainer 288 being coupled to annular plunger body 282 retains annularinner seal 284 and annular outer seal 286.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 30 and 31, bracket 104 comprises first bracket portion 106 andsecond bracket portion 108, removably coupled to first bracket portion106. Sleeve 110 is capable of being separated from bracket 104 alongfirst axis 118 when second bracket portion 108 is removed from firstbracket portion 106. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 36 of the present disclosure, wherein example 36also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1 to35, above.

Bracket 104 that has two portions enables removal of sleeve 110, andother components of apparatus 100 coupled to sleeve 110, withoutcompletely removing bracket 104 from interface bracket 224. In someexamples, upon removal of second bracket portion 108 of bracket 104 fromfirst bracket portion 106 of bracket 104, sleeve 110 is capable of beingwithdrawn from within first bracket portion 106 of bracket 104 alongfirst axis 118.

In some examples, at least one of first bracket portion 106 and secondbracket portion 108 of bracket 104 is removably coupled with interfacebracket 224 such that first power-transmitting component 184 is capableof entering bracket 104 through bracket opening 438. In some examples,bracket 104 includes shoulders 442 that project inward from bracket wall440. In some examples, bracket 104 is configured to capture and retainsleeve 110 between shoulders 442 upon second bracket portion 108 ofbracket 104 being coupled to first bracket portion 106 of bracket 104and to interface bracket 224. In some examples, a first one of shoulders442 engages the first one of annular bearings 404 coupled to sleeve 110and a second one of shoulders 442 engages the second one of annularbearings 404 coupled to sleeve 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 18, 19, and 25-28, apparatus 100 further comprises valve-lockingassembly 218, configured to releasably couple valve 140 with sleeve 110.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 37of the present disclosure, wherein example 37 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 1 to 36, above.

Valve-locking assembly 218 enables quick, easy, and effective lockingand unlocking of valve 140 to sleeve 110. Locking valve 140 to sleeve110 facilitates retention of valve 140 in fluid communication withcartridge 124. Unlocking valve 140 from sleeve 110 facilitates removalof valve 140, for example, for purposes of repair and/or replacement ofvalve 140 or other components of apparatus 100.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 18, 19, and 25-28, valve-locking assembly 218 comprises firstbracket 244, coupled to sleeve 110, and second bracket 248, coupled tosleeve 110 and spaced away from first bracket 244. Valve 140 isconfigured to fit between first bracket 244 and second bracket 248 andis configured to be coupled to first bracket 244 and second bracket 248.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 38of the present disclosure, wherein example 38 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 37, above.

First bracket 244 and second bracket 248 enable valve 140 to bereleasably locked to valve-locking assembly 218 by facilitating valve140 being securely retained between first bracket 244 and second bracket248 with valve 140 in fluid communication with cartridge 124.

In some examples, first bracket 244 is coupled to sleeve second end 122of sleeve 110 and projects from sleeve 110 along an axis, parallel withfirst axis 118. In some examples, second bracket 248 is coupled tosleeve second end 122 of sleeve 110 and projects from sleeve 110 alongan axis, parallel with first axis 118. In some examples, first bracket244 and second bracket 248 are laterally spaced apart to define anopening, configured to receive valve 140. In some examples, firstbracket 244 and second bracket 248 are sufficiently, laterally spacedapart to facilitate an interference fit of valve 140 between firstbracket 244 and second bracket 248. In some examples, with valve 140positioned within the opening, formed between first bracket 244 andsecond bracket 248, valve-locking assembly 218 captures valve 140between first bracket 244 and second bracket 248. Engagement of valve140 between first bracket 244 and second bracket 248 facilitates properorientation of valve 140 relative to cartridge 124 and positions valve140 in fluid communication with cartridge outlet port 134.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 25-28, valve-locking assembly 218 further comprises first lockingpins 266, configured to be removably coupled with first bracket 244 andvalve 140. Valve-locking assembly 218 further comprises second lockingpins 368, configured to be removably coupled with second bracket 248 andvalve 140. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 39 of the present disclosure, wherein example 39 also includesthe subject matter according to example 38, above.

First locking pins 266 and second locking pins 368 enable valve 140 tobe removably coupled to first bracket 244 and second bracket 248 influid communication with cartridge 124. With valve 140 positionedbetween first bracket 244 and second bracket 248, first locking pins 266and second locking pins 368 being removably coupled to first bracket 244and second bracket 248, respectively, facilitates retention of valve 140between first bracket 244 and second bracket 248.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 25-28, first locking pins 266 are configured to pass through firstbracket 244 along axes, perpendicular to first axis 118. Second lockingpins 368 are configured to pass through second bracket 248 along axes,perpendicular to first axis 118. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 40 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 40 also includes the subject matter according to example 39,above.

First locking pins 266 and second locking pins 368 being orientedperpendicular to first axis 118 fixes a position of valve 140 alongfirst axis 118 relative to valve-locking assembly 218. With valve 140positioned between first bracket 244 and second bracket 248, firstlocking pins 266 and second locking pins 368 being removably coupledwith first bracket 244 and second bracket 248, respectively, facilitatesprevention of linear movement of valve 140 along first axis 118.

In some examples, first bracket 244 includes first bracket pass-throughpassages 446 that extend entirely through a body of first bracket 244along an axis, perpendicular to first axis 118. First bracketpass-through passages 446 are configured to receive first locking pins266 when first locking pins 266 are coupled to first bracket 244.Similarly, in some examples, second bracket 248 includes second bracketpass-through passages 448 that extend entirely through a body of secondbracket 248 along an axis, perpendicular to first axis 118. Secondbracket pass-through passages 448 are configured to receive secondlocking pins 368 when second locking pins 368 are coupled to secondbracket 248. In some examples, valve 140 includes valve pass-throughpassages 444 that extend entirely through a body of valve 140 along anaxis, perpendicular to first axis 118. First ends of valve pass-throughpassages 444 are configured to receive first locking pins 266 when firstlocking pins 266 are removably coupled with first bracket 244. Secondends of valve pass-through passages 444 are configured to receive secondlocking pins 368 when second locking pins 368 are removably coupled withsecond bracket 248. With valve 140 positioned between first bracket 244and second bracket 248, first locking pins 266 extend through firstbracket 244 and into valve 140 along the axis, perpendicular to firstaxis 118, and second locking pins 368 extend through second bracket 248and into valve 140 along the axis, perpendicular to first axis 118.Engagement of first locking pins 266 and second locking pins 368 withfirst bracket 244 and second bracket 248, respectively, fixes a linearposition of first locking pins 266 and second locking pins 368 alongfirst axis 118 relative to first bracket 244 and second bracket 248,respectively. Engagement of first locking pins 266 and second lockingpins 368 with valve 140 fixes a linear position of valve 140 along firstaxis 118 relative to first bracket 244 and second bracket 248.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 25-28, first locking pins 266 and second locking pins 368 areconfigured to releasably engage valve 140. The preceding subject matterof this paragraph characterizes example 41 of the present disclosure,wherein example 41 also includes the subject matter according to example40, above.

First locking pins 266 and second locking pins 368 being engaged tovalve 140 enables a reliable interlock between valve 140 andvalve-locking assembly 218. Releasably engaging first locking pins 266and second locking pins 368 to valve 140 facilitates prevention ofinadvertent movement relative to first bracket 244, second bracket 248,and valve 140.

In some examples, each one of first locking pins 266 and second lockingpins 368 includes a detent having a projection (e.g., ball or pin)biased, via a biasing element (e.g., spring), into a position projectingoutward from an end of a body of an associated one of first locking pins266 and second locking pins 368. With valve 140 positioned between firstbracket 244 and second bracket 248 and first locking pins 266 coupled tofirst bracket 244, ends of first locking pins 266 extend into valvepass-through passages 444. Similarly, with valve 140 positioned betweenfirst bracket 244 and second bracket 248 and second locking pins 368coupled to second bracket 248, ends of second locking pins 368 extendinto valve pass-through passages 444. In an outwardly biased position,the detents of first locking pins 266 and second locking pins 368 engageapertures, formed in the body of valve 140 along valve pass-throughpassages 444, and prevent removal of first locking pins 266 and secondlocking pins 368 from valve pass-through passages 444.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 6-9, 20, and 25-28, valve 140 comprises first valve-body portion260 and second valve-body portion 262, coupled to first valve-bodyportion 260. With valve 140 releasably locked to valve-locking assembly218, first valve-body portion 260 is positioned between first bracket244 and second bracket 248 and second valve-body portion 262 ispositioned within inner tubular sleeve wall 114. The preceding subjectmatter of this paragraph characterizes example 42 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 42 also includes the subject matteraccording to any one of examples 38 to 41, above.

When valve 140 is locked to valve-locking assembly 218, theconfiguration of valve 140 facilitates a reduction in the overall sizeof apparatus 100 by positioning second valve-body portion 262 of valve140 within sleeve 110 and first valve-body portion 260 of valve 140between first bracket 244 and second bracket 248 for coupling of firstlocking pins 266 and second locking pins 368.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 26, valve 140 further comprises first side 254 and second side 264,opposite first side 254. First bracket 244 is configured to engage firstside 254 of valve 140. Second bracket 248 is configured to engage secondside 264 of valve 140. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 43 of the present disclosure, wherein example 43also includes the subject matter according to example 42, above.

Engagement of first side 254 of valve 140 with first bracket 244 ofvalve-locking assembly 218 and engagement of second side 264 of valve140 with second bracket 248 of valve-locking assembly 218 enablesprecise locating of valve 140 and a reliable interlock between valve 140and valve-locking assembly 218. Valve 140 being positioned between firstbracket 244 and second bracket 248 with second valve-body portion 262within sleeve 110 facilitates the reduction in size of apparatus 100 andplaces valve 140 into direct fluid communication with cartridge 124.Direct communicative coupling of valve 140 with cartridge 124 reducesthe amount of brushable substance 102 wasted due to a purging operation,for example, when cartridge 124 is replaced.

In some examples, first bracket 244 is configured to engage and matewith first side 254 of valve 140 and second bracket 248 is configured toengage and mate with second side 264 of valve 140. In some examples,first locking pins 266 extend through first bracket 244 and into valvepass-through passages 444, located in first valve-body portion 260 ofvalve 140, and second locking pins 368 extend through second bracket 248and into valve pass-through passages 444, located in first valve-bodyportion 260 of valve 140. In some examples, first side 254 of valve 140and first bracket 244 are geometrically complementary to facilitatemating engagement between valve 140 and first bracket 244. Similarly, insome examples, second side 264 of valve 140 and second bracket 248 aregeometrically complementary to facilitate mating engagement betweenvalve 140 and second bracket 248.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 7, 8, 25, and 26, each of first bracket 244 and second bracket 248comprises first bracket-body portion 376, coupled to sleeve 110, andsecond bracket-body portion 378, extending from first bracket-bodyportion 376 and positioned within inner tubular sleeve wall 114. Withvalve 140 releasably locked to valve-locking assembly 218, firstvalve-body portion 260 is positioned between first bracket-body portion376 of first bracket 244 and second bracket 248 and second valve-bodyportion 262 is positioned between second bracket-body portion 378 offirst bracket 244 and second bracket 248. The preceding subject matterof this paragraph characterizes example 44 of the present disclosure,wherein example 44 also includes the subject matter according to example43, above.

First bracket-body portion 376 and second bracket-body portion 378 offirst bracket 244 and second bracket 248 enables complete and reliableengagement of first bracket 244 and second bracket 248 with first side254 and second side 264 of valve 140. First bracket-body portion 376 offirst bracket 244 and second bracket 248 facilitates positioning offirst valve-body portion 260 of valve 140 relative to cartridge 124 toplace valve 140 into direct fluid communication with cartridge 124.Second bracket-body portion 378 of first bracket 244 and second bracket248 facilitates positioning of second valve-body portion 262 of valve140 within inner tubular sleeve wall 114 of sleeve 110 to reduce thesize of apparatus 100.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 20-22, valve 140 further comprises valve chamber 274 and valvepassage 276, extending through valve 140 along axis parallel to firstaxis 118. Valve 140 also comprises valve-inlet port 142, locatedradially outward of valve chamber 274. Valve 140 additionally comprisesvalve-outlet orifice 144, extending through valve 140 into valve chamber274. Valve passage 276 opens into valve chamber 274. Valve-inlet port142 is communicatively coupled with valve chamber 274 and is configuredto be communicatively coupled with cartridge 124. Valve-outlet orifice144 is configured to be communicatively coupled with brush-arm assembly152. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 45 of the present disclosure, wherein example 45 also includesthe subject matter according to any one of examples 42 to 44, above.

Valve-inlet port 142, valve chamber 274, and valve-outlet orifice 144define a flow path for brushable substance 102 through valve 140.Forming valve-inlet port 142 in first valve-body portion 260 at alocation radially outward of valve chamber 274 facilitates alignment andsealing engagement of valve-inlet port 142 with cartridge outlet port134 of cartridge 124. Valve-outlet orifice 144 being formed in firstvalve-body portion 260 facilitates communicative coupling of valve 140with brush-arm assembly 152. Valve passage 276 being formed in secondvalve-body portion 262 facilitates access of linear actuator 138 withvalve chamber 274.

In some examples, valve 140 includes more than one valve-inlet port 142.Each valve-inlet port 142 is configured to be communicatively coupledwith one cartridge outlet port 134 of cartridge 124. In some examples,valve-inlet port 142 also includes a gasket configured to form a sealbetween valve-inlet port 142 and cartridge outlet port 134.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 8, 9, and 20-22, valve 140 further comprises valve channel 280.Valve chamber 274 comprises first chamber portion 370 and second chamberportion 372, communicatively coupled with first chamber portion 370.Valve-inlet port 142 is communicatively coupled with first chamberportion 370 by valve channel 280. Valve channel 280 is circumferentiallyclosed and extends between valve-inlet port 142 and first chamberportion 370 so that brushable substance 102 is able to move fromvalve-inlet port 142 through valve channel 280 to first chamber portion370. Valve-outlet orifice 144 extends through valve 140 into secondchamber portion 372. Valve 140 further comprises valve seat 380 betweenfirst chamber portion 370 and second chamber portion 372. Linearactuator 138 is configured to selectively seal valve seat 380. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 46 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 46 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 45, above.

Valve channel 280 enables fluid coupling of valve-inlet port 142, whichhas a flow direction parallel with first axis 118, with valve chamber274, which has a flow direction parallel with first axis 118. Valve seat380 provides a sealable interface between first chamber portion 370 andsecond chamber portion 372 for selective sealing engagement by linearactuator 138 to segregate first chamber portion 370 from second chamberportion 372 and block the flow path of brushable substance 102 fromvalve-inlet port 142 to valve-outlet orifice 144 through valve chamber274.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 8, 9, 21, and 22, linear actuator 138 comprises barrel 292,removably coupled with second valve-body portion 262, and piston 294,movable along first axis 118 within barrel 292 between extended positionand retracted position. Linear actuator 138 further comprises actuatorrod 146, coupled to piston 294 and extending through valve passage 276,and first plug 296, coupled to actuator rod 146 opposite piston 294.With piston 294 in extended position, first plug 296 is entirely insecond chamber portion 372 and does not sealingly engage valve seat 380between first chamber portion 370 and second chamber portion 372. Withpiston 294 in retracted position, first plug 296 sealingly engages valveseat 380 between first chamber portion 370 and second chamber portion372. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 47 of the present disclosure, wherein example 47 also includesthe subject matter according to example 46, above.

Linear actuator 138 enables precise control of the flow rate ofbrushable substance 102 out of valve 140 and into brush-arm assembly152. Linear actuator 138 facilitates flow of brushable substance 102from valve-outlet orifice 144 by positioning first plug 296 in an openposition, in which first plug 296 is positioned entirely within secondchamber portion 372 and is not sealingly engaged with valve seat 380,when piston 294 is moved to the extended position (FIG. 22). Linearactuator 138 also facilitates restriction of flow of brushable substance102 from valve-outlet orifice 144 by positioning first plug 296 in aclosed position, in which first plug 296 is positioned within valve seat380 and is sealingly engaged with valve seat 380, when piston 294 ismoved to the retracted position (FIG. 21).

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 8, 9, 21, and 22, linear actuator 138 further comprises secondplug 298, spaced away from first plug 296 along actuator rod 146 andpositioned within valve passage 276. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 48 of the present disclosure,wherein example 48 also includes the subject matter according to example47, above.

Second plug 298 enables restriction of flow of brushable substance 102from valve chamber 274 into valve passage 276. In other words, secondplug 298 being positioned within valve passage 276 facilitatesprevention of a backflow of brushable substance 102 from valve chamber274 into valve passage 276 as brushable substance 102 flows throughvalve 140 and during actuation of linear actuator 138.

In some examples, actuator rod 146 also includes a first rod body,coupled to piston 294. In some examples, second plug 298 is coupled tothe first rod body. In some examples, actuator rod 146 also includes asecond rod body, coupled to second plug 298. In some examples, firstplug 296 is coupled to the second rod body, opposite second plug 298.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 23, linear actuator 138 further comprises first actuator pressureinput 324, configured to communicate pneumatic pressure to move piston294 in first direction into extended position and second actuatorpressure input 326, configured to communicate pneumatic pressure to movepiston 294 in second direction, opposite first direction, into retractedposition. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 49 of the present disclosure, wherein example 49 also includesthe subject matter according to example 47 or 48, above.

First actuator pressure input 324 and second actuator pressure input 326enable double-action of linear actuator 138 and delivery of thepneumatic pressure driving force for movement of piston 294 relative tobarrel 292.

In some examples, apparatus 100 also includes pressure tubes (notillustrated) to facilitate communication of pressure to and from linearactuator 138. In some examples, the pressure tubes communicate pressureto and from first actuator pressure input 324 and second actuatorpressure input 326 to facilitate pressurization of internal cylinder 450of barrel 292 and application of pneumatic pressure to piston 294 tocontrol operation of linear actuator 138, such as to move first plug 296relative to valve 140 to control flow of brushable substance 102 fromvalve 140 to brush 176. In some examples, each one of first actuatorpressure input 324 and second actuator pressure input 326 is a pneumaticfitting.

Selective pneumatic operation of first actuator pressure input 324 andsecond actuator pressure input 326 of linear actuator 138 enablesprecise application of pneumatic pressure to piston 294 to preciselycontrol the flow of brushable substance 102 out of valve 140 and tobrush 176. Additionally, selective pneumatic operation of first actuatorpressure input 324 and second actuator pressure input 326 facilitatesthe use of automated pneumatic controls to control the pneumaticoperation of first actuator pressure input 324 and second actuatorpressure input 326.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 18-23, apparatus 100 further comprises first position sensor 328,configured to detect when piston 294 is in extended position, and secondposition sensor 330, configured to detect when piston 294 is inretracted position. Apparatus 100 also comprises positioning element332, located on piston 294. Positioning element 332 is configured toactuate first position sensor 328 when piston 294 is in extendedposition and is configured to actuate second position sensor 330 whenpiston 294 is in retracted position. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 50 of the present disclosure,wherein example 50 also includes the subject matter according to any oneof examples 47 to 49, above.

First position sensor 328 and second position sensor 330 enabledetection of whether first plug 296 is in the open position or theclosed position based on the position of piston 294. Positioning element332 enables actuation of first position sensor 328 when piston 294 is inthe extended position to indicate valve 140 is open. Positioning element332 also enables actuation of second position sensor 330 when piston 294is in the retracted position to indicate valve 140 is closed.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 21 and 22, positioning element 332 comprises magnet 312, coupledto piston 294. First position sensor 328 comprises first magnetic sensor334, proximate to one end of barrel 292. Second position sensor 330comprises second magnetic sensor 336, proximate to another end of barrel292. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 51 of the present disclosure, wherein example 51 also includesthe subject matter according to example 50, above.

Magnet 312 enables non-contact actuation of first magnetic sensor 334and second magnetic sensor 336 in response to movement of piston 294relative to barrel 292.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 21 and 22, piston 294 comprises first annular piston portion 308,coupled to actuator rod 146, and second annular piston portion 310,coupled to actuator rod 146 and spaced away from first annular pistonportion 308. Magnet 312 is an annular magnet, coupled to actuator rod146 between first annular piston portion 308 and second annular pistonportion 310. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 52 of the present disclosure, wherein example 52also includes the subject matter according to example 51, above.

Magnet 312 being an annular magnet enables positioning of first magneticsensor 334 and second magnetic sensor 336 at any location around anexterior of barrel 292 relative to piston 294.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 19-23, 25, and 26, second valve-body portion 262 further comprisesfirst twist-lock interface 346, configured to releasably lock barrel 292of linear actuator 138 to valve 140. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 53 of the present disclosure,wherein example 53 also includes the subject matter according to any oneof examples 45 to 52, above.

First twist-lock interface 346 enables simple, easy, and effectivecoupling of linear actuator 138 to valve 140. First twist-lock interface346 facilitates releasable locking of linear actuator 138 to valve 140with actuator rod 146 extending through valve passage 276 and into valvechamber 274 via a twisting action of linear actuator 138 relative tosecond valve-body portion 262 of valve 140.

In some examples, linear actuator 138 includes at least one twist-lockretainer 452 coupled to barrel 292 and extending along an axis, parallelwith first axis 118. In some examples, first twist-lock interface 346 ofsecond valve-body portion 262 of valve 140 includes at least onetwist-lock clamp 454. In some examples, twist-lock clamp 454 iscross-sectionally complementary to twist-lock retainer 452 and isconfigured to receive and releasably retain twist-lock retainer 452 uponinsertion of twist-lock retainer 452 into twist-lock clamp 454 andtwisting action of linear actuator 138 relative to valve 140. In someexamples, twist-lock retainer 452 includes a shaft, projecting outwardfrom barrel 292 of linear actuator 138, and a disk-like head, located onan end of the shaft. In some examples, twist-lock retainer 452 is ashoulder bolt, coupled to barrel 292 of linear actuator 138. Firsttwist-lock interface 346 ensures linear actuator 138 is securely coupledto valve 140 with actuator rod 146 partially positioned within valvechamber 274.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 9, 19, and 24, apparatus 100 further comprises pressure sensor340, configured to be in communication with brushable substance 102 whenbrushable substance 102 is introduced into valve chamber 274. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 54 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 54 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 45 to 53, above.

Pressure sensor 340 enables detection of pressure of brushable substance102 within valve 140. In some examples, the pressure of brushablesubstance 102 within valve 140 that is detected by pressure sensor 340is used to control the rate at which brushable substance 102 flows fromcartridge 124 to valve 140. Additionally, in some examples, the pressureof brushable substance 102 within valve 140 that is detected by pressuresensor 340 is used to control the actuation of linear actuator 138 toregulate the rate at which brushable substance 102 flows from valve 140to brush-arm assembly 152. In some examples, pressure sensor 340 isconfigured to be removably coupled to valve 140.

In some examples, valve 140 includes pressure sensor port 456 that is incommunication with brushable substance 102 within valve 140. In someexamples, pressure sensor port 456 is located in second valve-bodyportion 262 of valve 140 and extends from an exterior of valve 140 intocommunication with valve channel 280. In some examples, pressure sensor340 is at least partially located within pressure sensor port 456 suchthat pressure sensor 340 is in communication with brushable substance102, located within or flowing through, valve channel 280 of valve 140,for example, as brushable substance 102 is being introduced to valvechamber 274.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 9, 19, and 24, apparatus 100 further comprises pressure-sensorhousing 344, configured to house pressure sensor 340. Second valve-bodyportion 262 of valve 140 further comprises second twist-lock interface348, configured to releasably lock pressure-sensor housing 344 to valve140. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 55 of the present disclosure, wherein example 55 also includesthe subject matter according to example 54, above.

Pressure-sensor housing 344 and second twist-lock interface 348 enablesimple, easy, and effective coupling of pressure sensor 340 to valve 140in communication with brushable substance 102 within valve 140.Pressure-sensor housing 344 facilitates pressure sensor 340 beingreleasably locked to valve 140 such that pressure sensor 340 is incommunication with (e.g., is in contact with) brushable substance 102,located within valve 140, such as brushable substance 102, locatedwithin valve channel 280.

In some examples, pressure-sensor housing 344 includes at least onetwist-lock retainer 458. In some examples, second twist-lock interface348 of second valve-body portion 262 of valve 140 includespressure-sensor receptacle 460 and at least one twist-lock groove 462.In some examples, pressure-sensor receptacle 460 is cross-sectionallycomplementary to pressure-sensor housing 344. In some examples,pressure-sensor receptacle 460 opens into pressure sensor port 456 suchthat pressure sensor 340 extends into valve 140 in communication withbrushable substance 102 when pressure-sensor housing 344 is insertedinto pressure-sensor receptacle 460. In some examples, twist-lock groove462 is configured to receive and retain twist-lock retainer 458 uponinsertion of pressure-sensor housing 344 into pressure-sensor receptacle460 and twisting action of pressure-sensor housing 344 relative to valve140. Pressure-sensor housing 344 and second twist-lock interface 348ensure pressure sensor 340 is securely coupled to valve 140 incommunication with brushable substance 102 within valve 140.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, apparatus 100 furthercomprises pressure-signal conditioner 342, electrically coupled topressure sensor 340. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 56 of the present disclosure, wherein example 56also includes the subject matter according to example 54 or 55, above.

Pressure-signal conditioner 342 enables communication ofpressure-related information from pressure sensor 340 to an electroniccontroller in a format usable by the electronic controller. In someexamples, pressure-signal conditioner 342 provides data formatconversion functionality on-board apparatus 100, rather than at theelectronic controller.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, apparatus 100 furthercomprises pressure source 360 and controller 322, operatively coupledwith pressure source 360 and with pressure sensor 340 to control, basedon signals, obtained from pressure sensor 340, flow rate of brushablesubstance 102 through valve 140. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 57 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 57 also includes the subject matter according to example 56,above.

Use of pressure sensor 340 to control the flow rate of brushablesubstance 102 through valve 140 enables precise and predictable flow ofbrushable substance.

In some examples, pressure source 360 is operatively coupled to cappressure input 246 of push-lock pressure cap 150 to communicate pressureto cartridge 124 and drive movement of annular plunger 148. Pressuresource 360 is also operatively coupled to first actuator pressure input324 and second actuator pressure input 326 of linear actuator 138 tocommunicate pressure to linear actuator 138 and drive movement of piston294.

In some examples, controller 322 includes (or is) at least oneelectronic controller (e.g., a programmable processor) and at least onecontrol valve that is pneumatically coupled to pressure source 360 andat least one of push-lock pressure cap 150 and linear actuator 138.Controller 322 is configured to control application of pneumaticpressure from pressure source 360 to at least one of cap pressure input246 of push-lock pressure cap 150 and first actuator pressure input 324and second actuator pressure input 326 of linear actuator 138. In someexamples, the control valve is a two-way valve. In some examples, thecontrol valve is an electromechanically operated solenoid valve.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, apparatus 100 furthercomprises input/output connector 358, communicatively couplingpressure-signal conditioner 342 with controller 322. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 58 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 58 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 57, above.

Input/output connector 358 enables electrical communication betweencontroller 322 and pressure-signal conditioner 342. Input/outputconnector 358 facilitates a convenient and reliable electricalconnection between controller 322 and pressure-signal conditioner 342.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 6-8 and 33-36, apparatus 100 further comprises brush 176,configured to be communicatively coupled with valve 140. Brush-armassembly 152 is configured to retain brush 176 and is capable ofspinning brush 176 about third axis 362, parallel to first axis 118. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 59 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 59 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 45 to 58, above.

Brush 176 enables dispensing of brushable substance 102 onto surface154. Rotation of brush 176 about third axis 362 facilitates spreading orapplication of brushable substance 102 onto surface 154. When pressureis applied to brushable substance 102 in cartridge 124, selectiveoperation of linear actuator 138 enables brushable substance 102 to flowfrom cartridge 124, through valve 140, to brush 176, at least whenbrush-arm assembly 152 spins (e.g., rotates) brush 176 about third axis362.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 7,8, 18, and 19, apparatus 100 further comprises third motor 366,operatively coupled to brush-arm assembly 152 and selectively operableto rotate brush 176 about third axis 362. The preceding subject matterof this paragraph characterizes example 60 of the present disclosure,wherein example 60 also includes the subject matter according to example59, above.

Third motor 366 being operatively coupled with brush-arm assembly 152enables third motor 366 to selectively rotate brush 176.

In some examples, third motor 366 includes an output shaft that isrotatable by third motor 366 to produce a rotary force or torque whenthird motor 366 is operated. In some examples, third motor 366 is anyone of various rotational motors, such as electric motors, hydraulicmotors, pneumatic motors, electromagnetic motors, and the like. In someexamples, third motor 366 is coupled to valve-locking assembly 218 withthe output shaft operatively coupled to brush-arm assembly 152 toselectively rotate brush 176. In some examples, valve-locking assembly218 also includes bracket plate 470, removably coupled to first bracket244. In some examples, with bracket plate 470 coupled to first bracket244, first bracket 244 and bracket plate 470, in combination, definemotor receptacle 472, configured to receive and retain a portion ofthird motor 366.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 7, 8, 33, and 36, brush-arm assembly 152 comprises first drivecomponent 364, rotatable about third axis 362. Third motor 366 isoperatively coupled with first drive component 364 and selectivelyoperable to rotate first drive component 364 about third axis 362. Brush176 is configured to be coupled with first drive component 364. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 61 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 61 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 60, above.

Third motor 366 being operatively coupled with first drive component 364and brush 176 being co-rotatably coupleable with first drive component364 enables third motor 366 to selectively rotate brush 176. In someexamples, third axis 362 is laterally spaced away from and parallel toan axis of rotation of third motor 366 and first axis 118. Configuringthird axis 362 to be parallel to the axis of rotation of third motor 366facilitates reduced complexity and improved reliability of the operativecoupling between third motor 366 and first drive component 364.Configuring third axis 362 to be laterally spaced away from first axis118 facilitates positioning of brush 176 laterally outward of first axis118.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 36, first drive component 364 comprises brush receptacle 382,configured to releasably retain brush 176. The preceding subject matterof this paragraph characterizes example 62 of the present disclosure,wherein example 62 also includes the subject matter according to example61, above.

Brush receptacle 382 enables brush 176 to be quickly and easily retainedby first drive component 364 and removed from first drive component 364.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIG. 36, brush 176 comprises engagement portion 384. Brush receptacle382 is configured to form an interference fit with engagement portion384 of brush 176. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 63 of the present disclosure, wherein example 63also includes the subject matter according to example 62, above.

Interference fit between brush receptacle 382 engagement portion 384 ofbrush 176 promotes a secure retention of brush 176 by brush receptacle382 and facilitates co-rotation of brush 176 and first drive component364. Additionally, interference fit between brush receptacle 382 andengagement portion 384 of brush 176 enables brush receptacle 382 toretain brush 176 by simply inserting engagement portion 384 of brush 176into brush receptacle 382 without the need for additional fasteners. Insome examples, brush receptacle 382 includes a hex socket and engagementportion 384 of brush 176 includes a hex head configured to fit within anopening of the hex socket of brush receptacle 382. In some examples,brush receptacle 382 also includes a gasket (e.g., an O-ring) configuredto facilitate the interference fit between brush receptacle 382 andengagement portion 384 of brush 176.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 34-36, brush-arm assembly 152 further comprises second drivecomponent 386, operatively coupled with third motor 366, and thirdpower-transmitting component 388, operatively coupled with second drivecomponent 386 and first drive component 364. Third motor 366 isselectively operable to rotate second drive component 386 about fourthaxis 392 of third motor 366. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 64 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 64 also includes the subject matter according to any one ofexamples 61 to 63, above.

Third motor 366 being operatively coupled with second drive component386 and second drive component 386 being operatively coupled with firstdrive component 364 enables third motor 366 to selectively rotate firstdrive component 364. In other words, second drive component 386 andthird power-transmitting component 388 facilitate transmission of powerfrom third motor 366 to first drive component 364, which rotates brush176. In some examples, fourth axis 392 of third motor 366 is the axis ofrotation of third motor 366.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 34-36, third power-transmitting component 388 comprises gear train390. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 65 of the present disclosure, wherein example 65 also includesthe subject matter according to example 64, above.

Gear train 390 provides an efficient and reliable mechanism to transmitpower from third motor 366 to first drive component 364, such as whenfirst drive component 364 is not co-axial with fourth axis 392 of thirdmotor 366 (e.g., when third axis 362 of brush 176 is laterally offsetfrom fourth axis 392 of third motor 366). Alternatively, in someexamples, third power-transmitting component 388 is a belt or a chain

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 7 and 33-36, brush-arm assembly 152 further comprises unioncoupling 394, operatively coupling third motor 366 with second drivecomponent 386. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 66 of the present disclosure, wherein example 66also includes the subject matter according to example 64 or 65, above.

Union coupling 394 facilitates transmission of power from third motor366 to second drive component 386. In some examples, union coupling 394is rotary union that is co-rotatably coupled to the output shaft ofthird motor 366, at one end of union coupling 394, and co-rotatablycoupled to an input shaft of second drive component 386, at opposite endof union coupling 394.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 33-36, brush-arm assembly 152 further comprises drive-componenthousing 396, at least partially enclosing first drive component 364,second drive component 386, and third power-transmitting component 388.Drive-component housing 396 is coupled to one of first bracket 244 orsecond bracket 248. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 67 of the present disclosure, wherein example 67also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 64 to66, above.

Drive-component housing 396 enables secure retention of first drivecomponent 364, second drive component 386, and third power-transmittingcomponent 388. Drive-component housing 396 also facilitates theprotection of first drive component 364, second drive component 386, andthird power-transmitting component 388 from impacts and/or contaminants.In some examples, drive-component housing 396 includes bearings thatfacilitate low-friction rotation of first drive component 364, seconddrive component 386, and third power-transmitting component 388. In someexamples, bearings are any one of various types of bearings, such asradial ball bearings.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 3, 6, 27, and 28, drive-component housing 396 is fixed relative tosleeve 110. An angular orientation of brush-arm assembly 152 isselectively adjustable about first axis 118 relative to bracket 104 inresponse to rotation of sleeve 110. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 68 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 68 also includes the subject matter according to example 67,above.

Drive-component housing 396 being fixed relative to sleeve 110 enablesco-rotation of brush-arm assembly 152 and sleeve 110 about first axis118 relative to bracket 104. Controlled selective rotary motion ofsleeve 110 about first axis 118 relative to bracket 104 facilitatesautomated, precise rotation of brush-arm assembly 152 about first axis118. Selective adjustability of the angular orientation ofdrive-component housing 396 facilitates controlled, selective adjustmentof an angular orientation of brush 176 relative to surface 154. In someexamples, drive-component housing 396 of brush-arm assembly 152 iscoupled to first bracket 244.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 7 and 8, apparatus 100 further comprises brushable-substancedelivery tube 398, communicatively coupling valve 140 with brush 176.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 69of the present disclosure, wherein example 69 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 59 to 68, above.

Brushable-substance delivery tube 398 enables the delivery of brushablesubstance 102 from valve 140 to brush 176. Selective pressurization ofcartridge 124 and selective operation of linear actuator 138 to open andclose valve 140 facilitates flow of brushable substance 102 from valve140 to brush 176 through brushable-substance delivery tube 398, at leastwhen brush 176 is releasably retained by brush-arm assembly 152 andbrush-arm assembly 152 rotates brush 176. In some examples,brushable-substance delivery tube 398 also enables the delivery ofbrushable substance 102 from valve 140 to brush 176 along a pathexternal to drive-component housing 396 of brush-arm assembly 152 tofacilitate simplification and efficiency of transmitting power fromthird motor 366 to first drive component 364.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 7 and 8, apparatus 100 further comprises cap 400, configured to bereleasably coupled with brush-arm assembly 152. Cap 400 is configured todirect brushable substance 102 from brushable-substance delivery tube398 to brush 176 when brush 176 is releasably retained by brush-armassembly 152 and when brush-arm assembly 152 rotates brush 176. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 70 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 70 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 69, above.

Cap 400 enables brushable substance 102 to flow from brushable-substancedelivery tube 398 to brush 176, for example, while brush 176 isrotating. In some examples, cap 400 enables leak-free delivery ofbrushable substance 102 from brushable-substance delivery tube 398 tobrush 176, for example, while brush 176 is rotating.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 7, 8, and 36, cap 400 comprises cap channel 402, extending throughcap 400. Cap channel 402 is circumferentially closed. Brushablesubstance 102 moves from brushable-substance delivery tube 398 throughcap channel 402 of cap 400 to brush 176 when brush 176 is releasablyretained by brush-arm assembly 152 and when brush-arm assembly 152rotates brush 176. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 71 of the present disclosure, wherein example 71also includes the subject matter according to example 70, above.

Cap channel 402 of cap 400, being circumferentially closed, enablescontainment of brushable substance 102 as brushable substance 102 movesfrom brushable-substance delivery tube 398 to brush 176. In someexamples, brushable-substance delivery tube 398 is communicativelycoupled to valve-outlet orifice 144 and to cap channel 402 of cap 400.In some examples, brush 176 includes a hollow shaft communicativelycoupled with cap channel 402. In some examples, cap 400 includes a capreceptacle communicately coupled with cap channel 402 and configured toreceive the hollow shaft of brush 176. In some examples, cap 400 alsoincludes a gasket configured to form a seal between the hollow shaft ofbrush 176 and cap 400. In some examples, the hollow shaft of brush 176is rotatable relative to the cap receptacle of cap 400.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 2-9 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 of dispensing brushable substance102 onto surface 154 is disclosed. Method 1000 comprises, (block 1002)with cartridge 124 positioned inside sleeve 110 between inner tubularsleeve wall 114 and outer tubular sleeve wall 112, circumscribing innertubular sleeve wall 114, and also positioned between push-lock pressurecap 150, hermetically coupled with cartridge 124, and valve 140,communicatively coupled with cartridge 124, linearly moving annularplunger 148, received between inner tubular cartridge wall 126 and outertubular cartridge wall 128, circumscribing inner tubular cartridge wall126, toward valve 140 along first axis 118 to urge brushable substance102 from cartridge 124, through valve 140, and to brush 176 that iscommunicatively coupled to valve 140 and (block 1004) controlling flowof brushable substance 102 from valve 140 to brush 176. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 72 of the presentdisclosure.

Method 1000 provides for dispensing brushable substance 102, fromcartridge 124, through brush-arm assembly 152, to surface 154 of aworkpiece, for example, located in a confined space. The configurationof sleeve 110 and cartridge 124 reduces the size requirements forstorage of brushable substance 102 and allows linear actuator 138 and aportion of valve 140 to be located within sleeve 110. Push-lock pressurecap 150 enables pressurization of an internal volume, located withincartridge 124, which drives annular plunger 148. Rotation of sleeve 110controls an angular orientation of brush-arm assembly 152 relative tobracket 104 and surface 154. Valve 140 being communicatively coupleddirectly to cartridge 124 enables a reduction of brushable substance 102wasted, for example, during replacement of the cartridge 124 and/or apurging operation.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 2-9 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises, (block 1006)with sleeve 110 coupled to bracket 104, selectively rotating sleeve 110relative to bracket 104 about first axis 118 to controllably position ofbrush 176 relative to surface 154. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 73 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 73 also includes the subject matter according to example 72,above.

Selectively rotating sleeve 110 relative to bracket 104 enablespositioning of brush-arm assembly 152 relative to surface 154 fordispensing brushable substance 102.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 2-9 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises, (block 1008)with brush 176 releasably retained by brush-arm assembly 152, coupledwith sleeve 110, rotating brush 176 about third axis 362, parallel tofirst axis 118. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 74 of the present disclosure, wherein example 74also includes the subject matter according to example 73, above.

Rotating brush 176 facilitates spreading of brushable substance 102 ontosurface 154.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 5, and 29 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises (block 1010)detecting when sleeve 110 is in predetermined rotational orientationrelative to bracket 104 by actuating proximity sensor 190, locatedproximate to sleeve 110, with homing element 186, located on sleeve 110.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 75of the present disclosure, wherein example 75 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 73 or 74, above.

Detecting the rotational orientation of sleeve 110 relative to bracket104 enables actuation of proximity sensor 190 when sleeve 110 is rotatedto the predetermined rotational orientation relative to bracket 104 toindicate sleeve 110 is in the home position. Detecting the rotationalorientation of sleeve 110 also enables use of an incremental, ratherthan an absolute, position encoder, which would be unable to determinethe rotational orientation of sleeve 110 relative to bracket 104 in thecase of a power interruption.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 2-5 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises, (block 1012)with bracket 104 coupled to robot interface 222 that is coupled to robot116, selectively linearly moving bracket 104 relative to robot interface222 along first axis 118. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 76 of the present disclosure, wherein example 76also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 73 to75, above.

Linearly movement of bracket 104 relative to robot interface 222 enableslinear movement of bracket 104 relative to robot 116 and linear movementof brush-arm assembly 152 relative to surface 154.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 6-8 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises (block 1014)releasably locking push-lock pressure cap 150 to sleeve 110. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 77 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 77 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 72 to 76, above.

Releasably locking push-lock pressure cap 150 to sleeve 110 hermeticallycouples push-lock pressure cap 150 with cartridge 124 and enables use ofpneumatic pressure to move annular plunger 148 along first axis 118within cartridge 124 toward valve 140, which urges brushable substance102 from cartridge 124 into valve 140.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 6-8, and 13-15 and particularlyto, e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, according to method 1000, (block 1014)releasably locking push-lock pressure cap 150 to sleeve 110 comprises(block 1016) moving spring-loaded latches 256 of push-lock pressure cap150 relative to sleeve 110 into locked position, in which spring-loadedlatches 256 are engaged with sleeve 110. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 78 of the present disclosure,wherein example 78 also includes the subject matter according to example77, above.

Moving spring-loaded latches 256 of push-lock pressure cap 150 relativeto sleeve 110 into locked position enables push-lock pressure cap 150 tobe releasably locked to sleeve 110 and facilitates push-lock pressurecap 150 being sealed with cartridge 124.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 6-8, and 13-15 and particularlyto, e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, according to method 1000, (block 1014)moving spring-loaded latches 256 into locked position comprises (block1018) pushing keeper 236 of each one of spring-loaded latches 256 intolocking aperture 240 in sleeve 110 with latch spring 238, coupled tokeeper 236. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 79 of the present disclosure, wherein example 79 also includesthe subject matter according to example 78, above.

Pushing keeper 236 of each one of spring-loaded latches 256 into lockingaperture 240 in sleeve 110 enables quick, easy, and effective locking ofpush-lock pressure cap 150 to sleeve 110. With cam 258 of push-lockpressure cap 150 rotated about first axis 118 into the first rotationalorientation, spring-loaded latches 256 automatically return to thelocked position. In some examples, cam 258 is annular. In some examples,cam 258 is semi-annular.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 6-8 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises (block 1020)unlocking push-lock pressure cap 150 from sleeve 110. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 80 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 80 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 79, above.

Unlocking push-lock pressure cap 150 from sleeve 110 facilitates removalof push-lock pressure cap 150 from sleeve 110. Removal of push-lockpressure cap 150 from sleeve 110 facilitates removal of cartridge 124from within sleeve 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 6-8, and 13-15 and particularlyto, e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, according to method 1000, (block 1020)unlocking push-lock pressure cap 150 from sleeve 110 comprises (block1022) moving spring-loaded latches 256 of push-lock pressure cap 150relative to sleeve 110 into unlocked position, in which spring-loadedlatches 256 are disengaged from sleeve 110. The preceding subject matterof this paragraph characterizes example 81 of the present disclosure,wherein example 81 also includes the subject matter according to example80, above.

Moving spring-loaded latches 256 of push-lock pressure cap 150 relativeto sleeve 110 into unlocked position enables unlocking of push-lockpressure cap 150 from sleeve 110 is a simple, single motion.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 6-8, and 13-15 and particularlyto, e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, according to method 1000, (block 1022)moving spring-loaded latches 256 into unlocked position comprises (block1024) pushing keeper 236 of each one of spring-loaded latches 256 out oflocking aperture 240, formed in sleeve 110, by rotating cam 258 aboutfirst axis 118. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 82 of the present disclosure, wherein example 82also includes the subject matter according to example 81, above.

Pushing keeper 236 of each one of spring-loaded latches 256 out oflocking aperture 240 enables quick, easy, and effective unlocking ofpush-lock pressure cap 150 from sleeve 110. Rotating cam 258 about firstaxis 118 into the second rotational orientation moves spring-loadedlatches 256 into the unlocked position.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 12 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises, (block 1026)with push-lock pressure cap 150 removed from sleeve 110, at leastpartially ejecting cartridge 124 from sleeve 110 through annular sleeveend-opening 162 that separates inner tubular sleeve wall 114 and outertubular sleeve wall 112. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 83 of the present disclosure, wherein example 83also includes the subject matter according to example 82, above.

At least partially ejecting cartridge 124 from sleeve 110 facilitatesremoval of cartridge 124 from within sleeve 110. In an example, ejectingcartridge 124 from sleeve 110 through annular sleeve end-opening 162 isachieved by communicating pneumatic pressure to push cartridge 124 outof annular sleeve end-opening 162.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, 6 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises, (block 1028)with push-lock pressure cap 150 releasably locked to sleeve 110,controlling flow rate of brushable substance 102 through valve 140. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 84 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 84 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 78 to 83, above.

Pressure applied to annular plunger 148 enables annular plunger 148 tomove along first axis 118 toward valve 140, which urges brushablesubstance 102 from cartridge 124 and into valve 140. Control of thepneumatic pressure communicated to annular plunger 148 facilitatescontrol the flow rate of brushable substance 102 through valve 140.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 37A and 37B, according to method 1000, (block 1028) controllingflow rate of brushable substance 102 through valve 140 is based, atleast in part, on pressure of brushable substance 102, located withinvalve 140. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 85 of the present disclosure, wherein example 85 also includesthe subject matter according to example 84, above.

Controlling flow rate of brushable substance 102 based on pressure ofbrushable substance 102 enables precise and predictable flow ofbrushable substance 102. Monitoring parameters of brushable substance102, such as pressure of brushable substance 102, located within valve140, as brushable substance 102 flows through valve 140 to brush 176,enables a consistent and/or desired amount of brushable substance 102 tobe dispensed or applied onto surface 154 by brush 176. In an example,controller 322 is operatively coupled to pressure sensor 340 to processa pressure value of brushable substance 102 within valve 140. Controller322 controls the pneumatic pressure applied to annular plunger 148 andcontrols a position of first plug 296 relative to valve 140 based on theprocessed values to control the flow rate of brushable substance 102through valve 140.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises (block 1032)determining pressure of brushable substance 102, flowing through valve140. Method 1000 also comprises, (block 1034) based on pressure ofbrushable substance 102, linearly moving annular plunger 148 along firstaxis 118 toward valve 140 to control flow rate of brushable substance102 through valve 140. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 86 of the present disclosure, wherein example 86also includes the subject matter according to example 85, above.

Controlling flow rate of brushable substance 102 based on pressure ofbrushable substance 102 enables precise and predictable flow ofbrushable substance 102. Monitoring pressure of brushable substance 102,located within valve 140, as brushable substance 102 flows through valve140 and out from brush 176, enables a consistent and/or desired amountof brushable substance 102 to be dispensed or applied onto surface 154.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 21, and 22 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, according to method 1000, (block 1004)controlling flow of brushable substance 102 from valve 140 to brush 176comprises (block 1036) actuating linear actuator 138, coupled to valve140, to move first plug 296 of linear actuator 138 into one of openposition, in which first plug 296 does not sealingly engage valve seat380 of valve 140, or closed position, in which first plug 296 sealinglyengages valve seat 380 of valve 140. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 87 of the present disclosure,wherein example 87 also includes the subject matter according to any oneof examples 72 to 86, above.

Actuation of linear actuator 138 enables precise control of the flow ofbrushable substance 102 from valve 140 into brush 176 viabrushable-substance delivery tube 398. In an example, controller 322 isoperatively coupled to linear actuator 138 and controls the position offirst plug 296 relative to valve seat 380 of valve 140 to control theflow rate of brushable substance 102 through valve 140.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 21, and 22 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises (block 1038)detecting when piston 294 of linear actuator 138 is in extended positionto indicate that first plug 296 is in open position and (block 1040)detecting when piston 294 of linear actuator 138 is in retractedposition to indicate that first plug 296 is in closed position. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 88 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 88 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 87, above.

Detecting when piston 294 is in the extended and retracted positionsenables precise control of flow of brushable substance 102 from valve140 to brush 176 by controlling the relative position of first plug 296between the open and closed positions. Moving first plug 296 to the openposition at which first plug 296 does not sealingly engage valve seat380 enables flow of brushable substance 102 out of valve-outlet orifice144 and into brushable-substance delivery tube 398 for delivery to brush176. Moving first plug 296 into the closed position at which first plug296 sealingly engages valve seat, prevents flow of brushable substance102 out of valve-outlet orifice 144.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 21, and 22 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, according to method 1000, (block 1042) whenfirst plug 296 is moved from open position to closed position, brushablesubstance 102 is drawn from second chamber portion 372 of valve 140 backinto first chamber portion 370 of valve 140. The preceding subjectmatter of this paragraph characterizes example 89 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 89 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 87, above.

Movement of first plug 296 from the open position to the closed positionpulls brushable substance 102 back into valve 140 to prevent excessamounts of brushable substance 102 from passing through valve-outletorifice 144 and into brushable-substance delivery tube 398 during linearmovement of first plug 296.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 25-27 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, method 1000 further comprises (block 1044)releasably locking valve 140 to valve-locking assembly 218, which iscoupled to sleeve 110, so that valve-inlet port 142 of first valve-bodyportion 260 of valve 140 is communicatively coupled with cartridgeoutlet port 134 of cartridge 124 and second valve-body portion 262 ofvalve 140 is positioned within inner tubular sleeve wall 114. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 90 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 90 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 72 to 89, above.

Positioning second valve-body portion 262 of valve 140 within innertubular sleeve wall 114 of sleeve 110, when valve 140 is locked tovalve-locking assembly 218 and valve-inlet port 142 is sealingly engagedwith cartridge outlet port 134, facilitates a reduction in the overallsize of apparatus 100.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 25-28 and particularly to,e.g., FIGS. 37A and 37B, according to method 1000, (block 1044)releasably locking valve 140 to valve-locking assembly 218 comprises(block 1046) positioning valve 140 between first bracket 244, coupled tosleeve 110, and second bracket 248, coupled to sleeve 110 and (block1048) releasably locking valve 140 with first bracket 244 and secondbracket 248. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 91 of the present disclosure, wherein example 91also includes the subject matter according to example 90, above.

Positioning valve 140 between and releasably locking valve to firstbracket 244 and second bracket 248 enables valve 140 to be releasablylocked to valve-locking assembly 218 in fluid communication withcartridge 124.

Examples of the present disclosure may be described in the context ofaircraft manufacturing and service method 1100 as shown in FIG. 38 andaircraft 1102 as shown in FIG. 39. During pre-production, illustrativemethod 1100 may include specification and design (block 1104) ofaircraft 1102 and material procurement (block 1106). During production,component and subassembly manufacturing (block 1108) and systemintegration (block 1110) of aircraft 1102 may take place. Thereafter,aircraft 1102 may go through certification and delivery (block 1112) tobe placed in service (block 1114). While in service, aircraft 1102 maybe scheduled for routine maintenance and service (block 1116). Routinemaintenance and service may include modification, reconfiguration,refurbishment, etc. of one or more systems of aircraft 1102.

Each of the processes of illustrative method 1100 may be performed orcarried out by a system integrator, a third party, and/or an operator(e.g., a customer). For the purposes of this description, a systemintegrator may include, without limitation, any number of aircraftmanufacturers and major-system subcontractors; a third party mayinclude, without limitation, any number of vendors, subcontractors, andsuppliers; and an operator may be an airline, leasing company, militaryentity, service organization, and so on.

As shown in FIG. 39, aircraft 1102 produced by illustrative method 1100may include airframe 1118 with a plurality of high-level systems 1120and interior 1122. Examples of high-level systems 1120 include one ormore of propulsion system 1124, electrical system 1126, hydraulic system1128, and environmental system 1130. Any number of other systems may beincluded. Although an aerospace example is shown, the principlesdisclosed herein may be applied to other industries, such as theautomotive industry. Accordingly, in addition to aircraft 1102, theprinciples disclosed herein may apply to other vehicles, e.g., landvehicles, marine vehicles, space vehicles, etc.

Apparatus(es) and method(s) shown or described herein may be employedduring any one or more of the stages of the manufacturing and servicemethod 1100. For example, components or subassemblies corresponding tocomponent and subassembly manufacturing (block 1108) may be fabricatedor manufactured in a manner similar to components or subassembliesproduced while aircraft 1102 is in service (block 1114). Also, one ormore examples of the apparatus(es), method(s), or combination thereofmay be utilized during production stages 1108 and 1110, for example, bysubstantially expediting assembly of or reducing the cost of aircraft1102. Similarly, one or more examples of the apparatus or methodrealizations, or a combination thereof, may be utilized, for example andwithout limitation, while aircraft 1102 is in service (block 1114)and/or during maintenance and service (block 1116).

Different examples of the apparatus(es) and method(s) disclosed hereininclude a variety of components, features, and functionalities. Itshould be understood that the various examples of the apparatus(es) andmethod(s) disclosed herein may include any of the components, features,and functionalities of any of the other examples of the apparatus(es)and method(s) disclosed herein in any combination, and all of suchpossibilities are intended to be within the scope of the presentdisclosure.

Many modifications of examples set forth herein will come to mind to oneskilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains having thebenefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and theassociated drawings.

Therefore, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not tobe limited to the specific examples illustrated and that modificationsand other examples are intended to be included within the scope of theappended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing description and theassociated drawings describe examples of the present disclosure in thecontext of certain illustrative combinations of elements and/orfunctions, it should be appreciated that different combinations ofelements and/or functions may be provided by alternative implementationswithout departing from the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly,parenthetical reference numerals in the appended claims are presentedfor illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scopeof the claimed subject matter to the specific examples provided in thepresent disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of dispensing a brushable substance ontoa surface, the method comprising steps of: with a cartridge positionedinside a sleeve between an inner tubular sleeve wall and an outertubular sleeve wall, circumscribing the inner tubular sleeve wall, andalso positioned between a push-lock pressure cap, hermetically coupledwith the cartridge, and a valve, communicatively coupled with thecartridge, linearly moving an annular plunger, received between an innertubular cartridge wall and an outer tubular cartridge wall,circumscribing the inner tubular cartridge wall, toward the valve alonga first axis to urge the brushable substance from the cartridge, throughthe valve, and to a brush that is communicatively coupled to the valve;and controlling flow of the brushable substance from the valve to thebrush.
 2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising, with thesleeve coupled to a bracket, selectively rotating the sleeve relative tothe bracket about the first axis to controllably position of the brushrelative to the surface.
 3. The method according to claim 2, furthercomprising, with the brush releasably retained by a brush-arm assembly,coupled with the sleeve, rotating the brush about a third axis, parallelto the first axis.
 4. The method according to claim 2, furthercomprising detecting when the sleeve is in a predetermined rotationalorientation relative to the bracket by actuating a proximity sensor,located proximate to the sleeve, with a homing element, located on thesleeve.
 5. The method according to claim 2, further comprising, with thebracket coupled to a robot interface that is coupled to a robot,selectively linearly moving the bracket relative to the robot interfacealong the first axis.
 6. The method according to claim 1, furthercomprising a step of releasably locking the push-lock pressure cap tothe sleeve.
 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the step ofreleasably locking the push-lock pressure cap to the sleeve comprises astep of moving spring-loaded latches of the push-lock pressure caprelative to the sleeve into a locked position, in which thespring-loaded latches are engaged with the sleeve.
 8. The methodaccording to claim 7, wherein the step of moving the spring-loadedlatches into the locked position comprises pushing a keeper of each oneof the spring-loaded latches into a locking aperture in the sleeve witha latch spring, coupled to the keeper.
 9. The method according to claim8, further comprising a step of unlocking the push-lock pressure capfrom the sleeve.
 10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the stepof unlocking the push-lock pressure cap from the sleeve comprises a stepof moving the spring-loaded latches of the push-lock pressure caprelative to the sleeve into an unlocked position, in which thespring-loaded latches are disengaged from the sleeve.
 11. The methodaccording to claim 10, wherein the step of moving the spring-loadedlatches into the unlocked position comprises pushing the keeper of eachone of the spring-loaded latches out of the locking aperture, formed inthe sleeve, by rotating a cam about the first axis.
 12. The methodaccording to claim 11, further comprising, with the push-lock pressurecap removed from the sleeve, at least partially ejecting the cartridgefrom the sleeve through an annular sleeve end-opening that separates theinner tubular sleeve wall and the outer tubular sleeve wall.
 13. Themethod according to claim 7, further comprising, with the push-lockpressure cap releasably locked to the sleeve, a step of controlling aflow rate of the brushable substance through the valve.
 14. The methodaccording to claim 13, wherein the step of controlling the flow rate ofthe brushable substance through the valve is based, at least in part, ona pressure of the brushable substance, located within the valve.
 15. Themethod according to claim 14, further comprising: determining thepressure of the brushable substance, flowing through the valve; andbased on the pressure of the brushable substance, linearly moving theannular plunger along the first axis toward the valve to control theflow rate of the brushable substance through the valve.
 16. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the step of controlling the flow of thebrushable substance from the valve to the brush comprises actuating alinear actuator, coupled to the valve, to move a first plug of thelinear actuator into one of an open position, in which the first plugdoes not sealingly engage a valve seat of the valve, or a closedposition, in which the first plug sealingly engages the valve seat ofthe valve.
 17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising:detecting when a piston of the linear actuator is in an extendedposition to indicate that the first plug is in the open position; anddetecting when the piston of the linear actuator is in a retractedposition to indicate that the first plug is in the closed position. 18.The method according to claim 17, wherein when the first plug is movedfrom the open position to the closed position, the brushable substanceis drawn from a second chamber portion of the valve back into a firstchamber portion of the valve.
 19. The method according to claim 1,further comprising a step of releasably locking the valve to avalve-locking assembly, which is coupled to the sleeve, so that avalve-inlet port of a first valve-body portion of the valve iscommunicatively coupled with a cartridge outlet port of the cartridgeand a second valve-body portion of the valve is positioned within theinner tubular sleeve wall.
 20. The method according to claim 19, whereinthe step of releasably locking the valve to the valve-locking assemblycomprises: positioning the valve between a first bracket, coupled to thesleeve, and a second bracket, coupled to the sleeve; and releasablylocking the valve with the first bracket and the second bracket.